Terrien Metcalf-Fennoy announced as interim principal of JJK Academy
The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation has announced the appointment of Terrien A. Metcalf-Fennoy as its new interim principal at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee (JJK) Academy, effective July 1, 2026.
“A highly respected educational leader with more than three decades of experience in public education, Metcalf-Fennoy brings a distinguished record of instructional leadership, academic excellence and student advocacy to the Academy. Her appointment represents an exciting new chapter as the JJK Academy continues its mission of preparing students to become confident learners, compassionate leaders and lifelong achievers,” the official announcement shared.
For the past 20 years, Metcalf-Fennoy served as principal in Madison Community Unit School District #12, where she successfully led instructional programs serving students from pre-kindergarten through high school. Throughout her tenure, she was recognized for improving student achievement, strengthening school culture, empowering educators and building meaningful partnerships with families and the community.
Prior to serving as principal, Metcalf-Fennoy was a reading coach with Madison Community Unit School District #12, supporting teachers in implementing research-based literacy practices and facilitated professional development. She also dedicated more than a decade to the East St. Louis School District 189 as a teacher and reading interventionist, helping students strengthen literacy skills and achieve academic success.
“Terrien is an accomplished educational leader whose passion for children, commitment to academic excellence, and proven ability to inspire both students and educators make her an outstanding choice to lead the JJK Academy,” said Jackie Joyner-Kersee, founder and CEO of the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation. “Her experience, vision, and heart for serving young people align well with our commitment to providing every child with the opportunity to win in life.”
Metcalf-Fennoy holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Master of Science in Educational Administration, and an Educational Specialist degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She is currently completing her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership at Maryville University, with an anticipated graduation in April 2027. She is certified to teach in both Illinois and Missouri and holds a Superintendent Endorsement.
Her many professional accomplishments include being named the 2023 Illinois Principals Association Principal of the Year, as well as active membership in the Illinois Principals Association, the National Association of Elementary School Principals, and the National Alliance of Black School Educators. She has also been recognized with multiple Illinois State Board of Education Academic Improvement Awards.
“I am honored to join the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation and the JJK Academy family,” said Metcalf-Fennoy. “I believe every child deserves a learning environment where they are challenged, supported and inspired to reach their fullest potential. I look forward to furthering Jackie’s dream and partnering with our dedicated staff, families and community as we continue building a culture of excellence, opportunity, and achievement for every student.”
