NEWS

Bio and Interview with Mr. Jackson

by Spartan Spirit Staff

Biography

Mr. Kason Jackson is thrilled to join the Ocean Township High School Spartan Leadership Team as new Assistant Principal. Mr. Jackson received his Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Education with a concentration in Voice from  Mason Gross School of the Arts of Rutgers University and his Masters Degree in Educational Administration from Kean University.

In his former position as Director of Vocal Music at Carteret High School, Mr. Jackson developed a vocal program with three curricular levels (Concert Choir, Chorale, & Chamber Choir) and three extracurricular choirs with more than 100 students participating. Under his direction, his choirs consistently received superior ratings at many festivals and competitions such as Music in the Parks, Heritage Music Festival, NJACDA High School Choral Festival & ICHSA Competition.

As a choral artist, Mr. Jackson has performed in venues around the world including New York's Lincoln Center (Alice Tully Hall), Yankee Stadium, Philadelphia's Kimmel Center, Gloucester Cathedral (United Kingdom), London's Chapel of the Old Royal Naval College and University of Utrect in Utrect, Netherlands and more.

Mr. Jackson was named A Teacher Who Makes Magic for the 2019-20 school year and NJ Governor's Educator of the Year for 2018-19 school year at Carteret High School. Mr. Jackson, a champion for arts integrated education, currently serves as the President-Elect for the New Jersey American Choral Directors Association State Board, where he previously served as Inclusivity Chair for 3 years. 

Mr. Jackson has a meaningful experience in education and a deep commitment to fostering a positive learning environment for all students. Throughout his career, Mr. Jackson has demonstrated strong leadership skills, compassion, high expectations, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of all students. His vision as an educational leader emphasizes the importance of fostering creativity, building a community of support, and empowering students to become critical thinkers and responsible citizens.

Interview

1. What school are you coming from and what was your experience there?

My prior school that I was in was Carteret High School, near Woodbridge and Perth Amboy. There I was the choir director teaching all levels of choir, music appreciation, piano and voice lessons. In addition, I was the student council advisor, the music honor society advisor, a member of the school security team, a member of the cultural committee and one of the advisors for the drama club. Over the last 8 years there, I was able to build an award winning choral program with over 100 students participating to one that was recognized regionally, state-wide and nationally. 

2. What are your interests and hobbies outside of work?

Outside of work, I love to travel, outdoor activities, cook and workout. When I have the time, I love kayaking, hiking and the beach and enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I love exploring different cultures in different countries when I travel abroad. 

3. How has your experience been so far at OTHS?

My experience at OTHS has been quite the learning experience. From meeting the students, staff and colleagues; everyone has been extremely supportive and helpful in assisting as I transition into the role. Making the switch from a classroom teacher to an administrator is not easy however, I am glad that I can be an advocate for all students in the school while continuing to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment. 

4. Name 1 thing you'd like to help change in our school.

Right now, I am focused on learning and absorbing everything I can about OTHS. That is from students, faculty, the culture and climate all the way to the systems we have in place. With the administrative team, we will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of programs that are offered at OTHS to modify and improve practices to support teachers and students. We are committed to ensuring that our programs, restorative practices, and climate are reflective of our population while meeting the needs of our diverse student body.