The Episcopal School of Knoxville is pleased to announce that Dr. Jack Talmadge has been appointed as the second Headmaster in ESK’s 17-year history. Dr. Talmadge succeeds James Jay Secor, III, who will retire this summer after 16 years as headmaster.
Dr. Talmadge brings nearly 20 years of both public and private school experience as a teacher and an administrator to ESK. He is currently Director of the Summit Charter School, a public charter school for grades kindergarten through eighth in Cashiers, North Carolina. Prior to this, he worked as a senior administrator at a private school in Virginia. While at Summit, Dr. Talmadge has led such programs as Quest, Heritage Clubs, and S.E.E.C. that connect students at every grade level to an amazing experiential and place-based learning experience.
“I am overjoyed and honored by the gracious offer to become Episcopal School of Knoxville’s next Headmaster,” Talmadge said. “There is truly a wonderful level of wholesomeness, dedication and care for child success eminent in all areas of the school’s program. I commend Jay Secor, his talented faculty, and the many great ESK families and friends who have partnered to build such a special and inspiring place to learn and grow. This call is an easy “yes” for me, and the Talmadge family members are beside ourselves with excitement to join ESK on its next great adventure.”
Dr. Talmadge earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy at George Washington University in 2007 after completing his master of arts in Educational Leadership and Administration at George Washington in 2001. Dr. Talmadge graduated from Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia with a bachelor of science in Biology in 1993.
“We are excited about Jack’s energy, enthusiasm, and credentials; we are certain he is the one to lead ESK forward,” Cate Biggs, Chair of the Board, said. “At every turn, the Search Committee was guided by the ESK Mission, the principles of Episcopal education, and the detailed list of competencies developed for the job description before the search even began.
“What ultimately led us to Jack Talmadge, and distinguished him from our other strong candidates, was the combination of his breadth of experience, his thoughtful manner, and his clear articulation of sound educational ideas that are consonant with ESK’s culture and philosophy.”