I am humbled and blessed to serve as the principal of Frederick Law Olmsted Academy South. I have a passion for writing, reading, motivational speaking, and collaborating with various groups of students and adults. With twenty-two years of educational leadership within Jefferson County Public Schools, I am more than prepared to be the new leader of Olmsted Academy South. I have also had the pleasure of working at Olmsted Academy South as a volunteer for fashion shows and as a literacy coach, so I am no stranger to the Olmsted environment.

I am a 1987 graduate of Green County High School in Greensburg, Kentucky. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Communications (1993) and a Master of Arts in Teaching (1999) degree from the University of Louisville. I continued my education at Bellarmine University and received my Ed.S degree (2014) in Instructional Leadership and School Administration. I am truly a lifelong learner. I am currently pursuing my doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Organizational Change at the University of Louisville. 

My vision includes promoting a positive culture for all stakeholders through celebrations, collaboration, and a focus on academic excellence. Building positive relationships and a nurturing culture are key components of my leadership. I welcome parents and family members as key members to the success of their children. I enjoy events that allow families and students to not only showcase their academic achievements but also show their creativity in a myriad of ways. I look forward to building an active PTSA and partnering with our SBDM Council members to ensure that all decisions at Olmsted Academy South promote the success of students and their families. 

In addition, I have a passion for middle school students and most of my career has been centered upon this age group. I began my career as a Language Arts teacher at Newburg Middle School where I taught portfolio development and was a Louisville Writing Project Fellow. I also served as a Language Arts Resource Teacher at Gheens Academy. Next, I became a Literacy consultant for the Kentucky Department of Education and served schools across the state of Kentucky. After that position, I served as a Behavior Coach and then as an Assistant Principal for seven years. Middle school has always been my passion because the students' needs and actions are always unique. I enjoy the challenge of helping students excel when others count them out. 

What I do is not a job, it is a calling. I am ready to begin this new chapter and look forward to the opportunities and challenges it will present. I am grateful for the students, families, staff, and community members that I will collaborate with for the purpose of making sure our young ladies are prepared for their future. I believe in equitable education for all and will work to ensure that our students are provided with instruction that promotes diversity and academic growth. I reside in Louisville, Kentucky where I am active in the community as a published author, conference facilitator, and Bible study teacher. 

I am thrilled to be your Principal and can't wait to meet you. Please join me in making this one of the best years that our young gems have ever seen at Olmsted Academy South. I can't do this work without your participation and support. Together, we can help our BRAVE Leaders soar to new heights in the classroom and beyond

Synthia Shelby, Principal