LEAD Public Schools Announces New Principals for 2026-27 School Year
LEAD Public Schools has selected two new principals for the 2026-27 school year:
- LEAD Academy High School – Joseph Yurchak
- LEAD Southeast Elementary School – Adam Warner
“Mr. Yurchak and Mr. Warner’s knowledge as instructional leaders, as well as their experience on school leadership teams, will ensure a consistent vision as LEAD Academy and LEAD Southeast Elementary continue building upon their success next school year,” said Dr. Ricki Gibbs II, CEO at LEAD Public Schools. “This smooth transition in leadership exemplifies LEAD’s continued commitment to developing leaders from within the organization, and I am thrilled to see two homegrown leaders step into new roles.”
Yurchak, who currently serves as assistant principal of instruction at LEAD Academy, first joined the LEAD team in 2016 as an English and social studies teacher at LEAD Academy. Since then, he’s taught AP Literature and Language, AP Psychology, English IV, and held the position of instructional manager. Prior to coming to LEAD, Yurchak taught in Atlanta Public Schools, KIPP Atlanta, and KIPP Nashville. He brings 16 years of experience in education to his new role.
“I am honored by the opportunity to serve as principal at LEAD Academy and am deeply grateful for the many colleagues and students who have catalyzed my growth as an educator, leader, and human being over the last ten years,” said Yurchak. “I couldn’t imagine doing this work with any other people or in any other place. LEAD Academy is approaching its 20th year and has seen many different chapters in its existence: from our middle school years to our first graduating class on Heiman Street to our last decade in the historic Cameron building. I’m excited to build upon the strong foundation that we have at LAHS and support our incredible educators in the work to ensure all of our students are ready for college and ready for life.”
Warner is currently the assistant principal of instruction at LEAD Neely’s Bend, a position he’s held since 2023. Prior to joining LEAD, Warner served in school leadership positions in Metro Nashville Public Schools and taught both elementary and middle school in Wilson County Schools and Columbus City Schools. Warner brings 12 years of education experience to his new role.
“I’m incredibly humbled to have the opportunity to be named the next principal of LEAD Southeast Elementary,” said Warner. “This wouldn’t be possible without the level of support and development that I’ve received while working at LEAD Public Schools. I carry an unwavering commitment to stand alongside our staff to deliver on the promise that all members of the LEAD Southeast Elementary community will experience belief, belonging, and brilliance.”
Over the course of the rest of the semester, they will work closely with the current principals at their respective schools to ensure a smooth transition for the 2026-27 school year. They will officially begin their new roles on June 1.
