Koren Clinkscale named new principal of Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School

ANN ARBOR – Dr. Jeanice K. Swift, superintendent of schools for Ann Arbor Public Schools, recently announced the appointment of Koren L. Clinkscale as the new principal of Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School.

Clinkscale served as principal of Beech Elementary School in the Redford Union School District since 2018. She began her educational career as a third-grade teacher, followed by 17 years as a middle school science teacher. During the years she taught middle school, she also served as a K-8 science curriculum coordinator in the Southfield Public School District.

“I have found the most meaningful and essential work is being able to collaborate with my colleagues to create authentic learning opportunities for students that better prepare them to compete globally in a diverse world,” she said.

Clinkscale received a Bachelor of Science from Wayne State University and earned her Master of Arts in Curriculum and Teaching from Michigan State University. In 2006, she completed her Educational Specialist certification in General and Supervision Administration and Organizational Studies through Wayne State University.

The combination of her practical experience as a veteran classroom teacher, proven record of successful leadership in schools and extensive academic preparation give Clinkscale a depth and breadth of knowledge and experience that will serve the King community well.

Superintendent Swift extended a special thank you to the teachers, staff, parents and community members who served on the interview teams during a robust selection process.