We gathered at Kathleen High this morning to dedicate the school’s Freshman Academy building in honor of the late Johnnie Jackson, Jr.
Jackson served as KHS’ principal before passing away from cancer in 2021. He was 47.
He worked for Polk County Public Schools for nearly 20 years, serving as a teacher and administrator before landing the principal’s job at KHS — his alma mater — in 2018.
Jackson was a first-generation college student. After his passing, KHS and Jackson’s family established a scholarship in his name to help support other first-generation college students.
This morning’s event was well-attended by friends, family members, colleagues and KHS alumni. Jackson’s widow, Sybille Oldham-Jackson, called it “a wonderful celebration.”
“It was a reminder of his kindness, his intelligence, and the unwavering Kathleen spirit and pride he possessed,” said Oldham-Jackson, who is the principal at Lakeland Highlands Middle. “I felt like it was a testament to his incredible impact on this world and the lives he touched. Johnnie was a remarkable person, and now his legacy will live on forever.”
