As the new year begins at JP Stevens, Dr. Kim has embraced her role as principal with enthusiasm. Her journey as an educator has been shaped by her realization that her work can change lives and leave a lasting impact on students. “The amazing thing as an educator,” Dr. Kim says, “is that you never know the full effect of the things you say.” Initially, Dr. Kim did not intend to become an administrator, but needed a little change, which led her to this path. She always knew she wanted to instill change in others, and now strives to make a difference within the JP community.
Dr. Kim’s journey to becoming an educator was inspired by her love for English—a subject she excelled in as a student and later taught with enthusiasm. As an English teacher, Dr. Kim realized early in her career that she could effect change in her role. She had a direct impact on students, helping them become better readers and writers. Dr. Kim wholeheartedly believes that being an educator is an extremely important charge.
When asked to describe herself, Dr. Kim used words like “optimistic” and “thoughtful,” qualities that are evident in her day-to-day work. She consistently approaches her role with thoughtfulness and positivity, while also assessing situations with different perspectives. Dr. Kim describes herself as “immediate,” and has a gut reaction to things. She also believes the best in people, and is confident that “things are going to work out.” This outlook is what ultimately makes her leadership so impactful.
Under Dr. Kim’s leadership, the school auditorium will be reopening before the end of the school year. This project is part of the Diamond Jubilee, the sixtieth anniversary since JP’s opening, which symbolizes the growth JP has seen over the years. As a testament to our school’s legacy, the new auditorium will be completed in alignment with JP’s Diamond Jubilee.
Along with the Diamond Jubilee, Dr. Kim’s favorite part of JP are the students, as she praises how, “wonderful, polite, and driven,” they are. She says the hardest part of her job is all of the moving parts, but “the students remain constant.” Her hope is that students are “successful academically, and challenge themselves.” Dr. Kim also shared that she wishes for us to, “never lose sight of who [we] are and what’s important to [us].”
It’s clear that Dr. Kim has helped JP embrace its rich history through the Diamond Jubilee. From the updated branding and new shirts to the auditorium’s progress, this milestone is a reflection of the values that make JP home to us.
