Has been with JCPS for 18 years
By Mark Hebert
July 12, 2023 - The principal of Cochran Elementary School is taking on a new challenge. De’Nay Speaks has been named the new Executive Administrator for Academics.
“Dr. Speaks has dedicated her career to rethinking the learning experience for students,” said Terra Greenwell, chief academic officer. “She has a heart for equity and listens and learns from everyone she meets. She believes in Deeper Learning being our medium for instruction, and has led multiple district level professional development opportunities to lift up our student needs and support leaders to be their best.”
As Executive Administrator, Speaks will support K-12 academics with high quality professional development, focus on increasing access to Deeper Learning, and work towards refining the PLC process.
“I am excited and passionate about ensuring all students are able to access and attain the necessary skills, abilities, and dispositions to become successful adults,” Speaks said. “I have participated in this work at the school and district level in various capacities and I am confident I have the ability to make major contributions to provide support in the role of Executive Administrator."
Speaks has been the principal of Cochran since May 2019. At Cochran she created and maintained equitable systems while providing high-quality, inclusive instruction to all students in a caring and supportive environment. Speaks filtered her work through the district’s Six Systems and Three Pillars to ensure efficiency and a laser focus on the critical components of student success through Deeper Learning.
She began her Jefferson County Public Schools career in 2005 as a teacher at Breckinridge-Franklin Elementary School. Her six years at Breckinridge-Franklin were followed by positions as a district resource teacher, Goal Clarity Coacand Assistant Principal at Wellington Elementary School.
“I look forward to expanding my impact to positively influence as many students as possible by creating learning environments that enhance their ability to see themselves in their learning,” Speaks said.
Speaks has four degrees including a Doctor of Education from the University of Louisville (UofL). She also attained a superintendent certification from UofL last year.
“Dr. Speaks has an impressive take on how to operationalize best practices for student learning at the district level,” said Greenwell. “I’m excited to have her on this team and know that great things are ahead for our leaders and learners.”