Jamie Dickinson is stepping into a new role at a school she once attended as a student. After serving as Northville Central School District’s PreK–12 assistant principal last year, Dickinson is now the district’s middle school/high school principal, bringing classroom experience, local roots and a commitment to giving students a voice in their education.
In a recent conversation with Superintendent Dr. Sarah Chauncey on the district’s Falcon Podcast (listen below), Dickinson reflected on the experiences that led her back to Northville and the opportunities she hopes to create for students.
Her path began with participation in Northville’s Future Teachers Program, followed by a science degree and a master’s degree. She started her teaching career in Gloversville, teaching seventh-grade science, before moving to California to teach math and science in grades six through eight. There, work with underwater robotics and access to the ocean deepened her enthusiasm for hands-on learning.
After returning to New York, Dickinson worked in the P-TECH program, where helping build a new school alongside educators and students strengthened her belief in student empowerment. Her experience as an aide, teaching assistant, teacher and administrator has also shaped her collaborative approach to leadership.
“I don’t want them to feel like school is just done to them,” Dickinson said. “I want them to feel that they have a say in what they’re doing.”
That sense of belonging extends to the wider community. Reflecting on her year as assistant principal, Dickinson highlighted developing the Soaring Together Award and recognizing the contributions of staff, parents and community members. She emphasized that supporting students requires everyone to work together toward a shared goal.
As principal, Dickinson plans to strengthen the systems that support the school’s daily work while exploring opportunities shaped by students’ interests. She is especially looking forward to student council initiatives, student leadership, and possible new clubs. She wants students to help shape their school and feel part of something bigger than themselves.
Outside school, Dickinson enjoys spending time with her two children, traveling and hiking. Having lived outside Northville for about 15 years, she values the broader perspective those experiences gave her and hopes to help students discover possibilities beyond their own community.