Patriot Profiles - Jessica Browne

“The best decision I could have made!” That is how Jessica Browne describes her initial email to founding school director, Gregory Meece, and her subsequent decision to join Newark Charter School as a fifth grade ELA teacher in 2001.  Jessica has been a teacher, dean of instruction and is currently the principal of the Intermediate School.

One of Mrs. Browne’s favorite memories is moving into the trailers on Barksdale Road. “Parents came from everywhere to help with every task imaginable. This was truly the start of something amazing and the beginning of a legacy that would serve thousands of children. It was a sign of great things to come.”

Held their last academic day, seniors walk through the hallways starting in Kindergarten and ending in the high school hallways…called the Patriot Walk. This is Jessica’s favorite NCS tradition. “To see how much the students have grown into wonderful young adults while they walk the halls of where it all began for them is so touching. It brings up so many emotions, and you just know that these young adults are going to go out in the world and do great things. They have the tools to succeed and just as the staff has made their mark on them, they are going to make their mark on the world. The event is full of love, devotion, appreciation, and pride for our school.”

Jessica describes Newark Charter School as a family. “Everybody, from the staff, students, families, community members all have the same purpose – to best serve the students…to give them the high- quality education that every student deserves.”

So grateful Mrs. Browne sent that email to Mr. Meece 20 years ago and that she has found her home at Newark Charter School!