HIGH POINT – As summer break comes to an end, Angela Jackson comes to a new beginning at Ferndale Middle School in High Point.

The Ferndale Parent Teacher Association held a reception Wednesday for Jackson, whose term started July 1. She gave her plans for the 2010-11 school year and answered questions from the parents.

“The priorities for Ferndale are of course, the kids, instruction and curriculum, and a safe and orderly school,” Jackson said.

The upper media room of Ferndale was full of parents, students and community leaders. After a quick question-and-answer session with Jackson, the crowd mingled with school administrators.

Most parents were excited and intrigued by the new principal. They said they are anxious and ready for the change and quality that Jackson will bring to Ferndale Middle.

“I’m firm but fair, and I hold everyone to high expectations,” she said.

Jackson is a veteran educator with 15 years of experience in the classroom and 12 years in administration and professional development. She has a master’s degree in educational leadership and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. She currently is pursuing a doctoral degree in education leadership.

Prior to accepting the job at Ferndale Middle, Jackson was the principal of Lauderdale Lakes Middle School in Broward County, Fla. During her four years as principal at the school, she raised her students’ performance from a D rating to a B and fostered the growth of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program by about 170 students.

“The best way for me to make sure that the children are getting the best education is to be in the classroom,” Jackson said. “I want to create a culture of feedback for myself and teachers in order to ensure the success of the students.”

Jackson said she is very appreciative of the hard work and help her assistant principals Chiyanna Young and Katina Little have given to the school and herself during the transition.

jhowse@hpe.com | 888-3537