Aiken County Public Schools is proud to welcome Mr. Kirk Wright as the new Principal of Jackson STEM Magnet Middle School for the 2025–26 school year. Wright brings more than 30 years of experience in education and school leadership across multiple states, along with a deep passion for small-town schools and the communities they serve.
“The opportunity to return to a small-town school is an absolute blessing for me,” Wright shared. “I treasure the chance to get to know students and families within the very supportive Jackson community. Servant leadership has always been the cornerstone of my work as a principal, and I will fully dedicate myself to serving this community.”
Wright began his career as a middle school English teacher in Texas before teaching grades 5–7 in Montgomery County, Maryland. He later transitioned into administration, serving as Assistant Principal and Principal in Maryland, and then leading multiple schools in Georgia—including more than a decade as Principal of North Harlem Elementary, an experience he describes as formative and deeply rewarding. Most recently, Wright has served as School Effectiveness Coordinator for Richmond County Schools, supporting principals and federally-identified schools in strengthening instruction and student outcomes.
Across his career, Wright has developed a reputation as a collaborative leader who prioritizes both student success and strong community partnerships. He has extensive experience with data-informed instruction, school improvement planning, and building systems of academic support, while maintaining a clear focus on relationships with students, teachers, and families.
“After years in district-level roles, I am especially excited about getting back to the school, where the most meaningful work in education takes place each day,” he said. “I look forward to building positive relationships with students and teachers and working together to ensure every student thrives.”
Wright holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Texas at San Antonio, a Master of Education in Elementary Education from the University of Maryland, and an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Georgia College and State University. He is certified as a school administrator in South Carolina, Georgia, and Maryland.
Family remains central to Wright’s journey. He and his wife of 27 years, Susan, a math teacher in Columbia County, GA, have three grown children—two sons working in Atlanta and a daughter attending Georgia College and State University.
“For many years, I served as principal in the small community of Harlem, GA, an experience I truly treasure,” Wright reflected. “Leading Jackson Middle is like going home again, and I am honored to begin this new chapter alongside such a dedicated school community.”