Dear JFK Families,

My name is Samuel Lawrence, and I am excited to be your new Principal at JFK. The 24-25 school year marks my 11th year in education. I began my career through Teach for America, teaching Middle School English and Social Studies in Cleveland. I then taught 3rd grade at a Cleveland Charter School for two years, followed by three years teaching Kindergarten back in Cleveland. After that, I served as a school counselor for two years in Strongsville. Most recently, I was the assistant principal split between two buildings in Strongsville for two years. I am thrilled to be joining Maple Heights John F. Kennedy Elementary School as your building principal.

I have had a long educational journey along the way. I earned my bachelor's degree in philosophy from Wheaton College in Massachusetts, my Master's in school counseling from CSU, and I am currently working on my doctorate in Educational Leadership at Concordia University Chicago.

Though I am not originally from Ohio or Massachusetts, I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. My parents are Jamaican and Trinidadian, making me a first-generation American. Being from New York, I am a fan of the Giants, Knicks, Nets, Yankees, and all other New York sports teams. While I support Cleveland sports, you won't catch me in their gear! My family—Megan (my wife), Sawyer (4), Sutton (2), and Sloane (6 months)—calls Northeast Ohio home. We are Disney fans, and despite frequent trips to Disney, we love our life here in Ohio.

Maple Heights has been a place that focuses on the experiences provided to its students. I look forward to working with you to immerse students in experiences that inspire them to be their best selves.

We cannot do this alone. I stress the importance of- It Takes a Village!!! When you see me say high and connect with me. Let's make this a partnership that grows not only our kids, but our community.

Sincerely,

Samuel Lawrence