Principal: Jackie Collins

Hello, my name is Jackie Collins and I extend a warm welcome to the community, parents and children of Idaho Arts Charter as the principal of our third year of operation! I was hired as principal when IACS first opened in 2005 and have been through all of the organization, changes and highlights. My degrees include a B.A. in Education with a double major in speech and political science, an M.A. in Special Education with an emphasis in learning disabilities and a Specialist degree in Administration.

I have been a professional educator for 27 years teaching a variety of subjects including speech, drama, debate, government, history, special education, accelerated studies, economics, sociology, and was the first night school administrator for the Meridian School District.
In 2001, I was selected “Teacher of the Year” at Centennial High School and this was a great honor for me. During my career I have had the good fortune to have 8 student teachers and was a mentor for first year teachers in my department for three years. I consider teaching to truly be a craft that only the most talented and enlightened people engage.

On a personal note I have two young men, of whom I’m extremely proud of, in my life. One is my oldest child who attended the University of San Diego, was the first graduate in their mechanical engineering program and is employed by Zimmer Dental in Carlsbad, CA.. The other is my baby, attends Boise State University and also is majoring in mechanical engineering.

I enjoy downhill snow skiing, snow mobile riding and cross-country skiing in the winter and going boating and water skiing in the summer. I work out year round at a health club to stay in shape. I have several hobbies, but especially love to travel. I have traveled all over the United States with educational conferences or my family. Probably by favorite is New York City where I attended many plays, artistic events and historical sites. Seeing the “The Lion King” on Broadway and the Statue of Liberty are just two of my favorite memories. I have also traveled to many places outside of our country such as Australia, Mexico and the Caribbean.

I strive to go the extra mile in what ever I do and am not pleased with a mediocre job. Hard work and time commitment do not scare me when it comes to being a good administrator. I am willing to listen to my staff, students and parents and work to their best interests. A school is only as good as the community that you build. Please feel free to contact me about IACS and how we can work together to create the finest environment for your child. As a charter school we are taking on an exciting new curriculum that promises to awaken the educational arena. Thank you for joining us on this adventure!