In His Service: Takoma Academy Welcomes New Principal

Story by Shaun Robinson

Takoma Academy (TA) is delighted to welcome its incoming principal, Jasmine Brann, into the school’s family. A proud alumna of Sligo Adventist School (now Takoma Academy Preparatory School) in Takoma Park, Md., Brann holds this community close to her heart and is deeply honored to return in service and leadership. She is an author, researcher, nonprofit founder, singer-songwriter and was a principal in the District of Columbia Public Schools, where she was recognized as the “2024 Principal of the Year.”

Brann has presented at numerous conferences nationwide and is a passionate advocate for students’ access to holistic educational experiences, including multilingual education, arts integration and financial literacy. Most importantly to TA’s community, Brann loves God and is committed to supporting young people in developing meaningful, personal relationships with Him.

As excitement continues to grow around this new chapter for TA, the community has been eager to learn more about Brann’s beliefs, motivations and goals for the school. A few of those questions—along with Brann’s responses—are shared below.

What led you to consider the principalship at TA?

I felt God calling me to serve more directly within the faith community that helped shape and raise me (Galatians 6:10). I believe He has entrusted me with a beautiful assignment to learn, lead and serve at TA, using the gifts and experiences He has given me to make a meaningful difference for eternity.

What impact do you plan to have on the culture at TA?

My prayer is to honor and build upon the rich heritage and history of TA, while promoting a “kingdom-class” education that centers around God (Matthew 6:33). I also believe by following Christ together, we can make a lasting impact on our school community and all those around us as He faithfully leads us forward.

How important is spirituality to you as a school leader?

I know our relationship with God is our only lifeline. Faith is foundational to our spiritual intelligence (Hebrews 11:6; Hebrews 12:2). My prayer is to encourage and inspire real connection with God. This is the journey that I am on.

What will be different for you as a principal of a Christian school after serving as a principal in the public school system?

I definitely trust God to teach me as I learn in this new phase of my career. By God’s grace, I have always sought to lead according to my Christian values. However, I am especially grateful for the opportunity to speak even more openly about my faith and intentionally integrate God’s Word into my leadership and service.

As TA starts a new chapter, students, staff and faculty thank Keith Beckett, TA’s interim principal last year, for serving as its educational leader.