Meet Our Principal

Principal headshot

Jessica J. Wedgeworth, Ed. S.

Serving the students of BCS Virtual Academy of Learning (BCS VAL) has been a full circle moment for me as the first virtual principal of Birmingham City Schools.  I have a passion for digital learning and incorporating technology in the classroom to enhance and improve the learning experiences of scholars. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, listening to various genres of music, and traveling.  Enthusiastically, I am enjoying leading our virtual scholars to pursue excellence as they matriculate to the next grade level. 

I am a proud product of Birmingham City Schools. During my early years, I attended North Birmingham Elementary School and Gibson Elementary School. I received my secondary education at Hayes Middle School and Woodlawn High School where I embraced the love of competing academically, community service, writing, and inquiry.  My interest in volunteerism, children, and a love for learning led me to choose a service career. Naturally, I decided to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and pursued a degree in secondary education. 

My teaching career started at Putnam Middle School in 2003. Afterwards, I became John Herbert Phillips Academy’s first eighth grade social studies teacher.  Before becoming the principal of BCS VAL, I was the International Baccalaureate (IB) Coordinator for J.H. Phillips Academy and Ramsay IB High School.  

As an educator, I believe in student-centered learning and teaching that allows both scholar and teacher to reflect upon the learning journey.  Believing that all students can learn, I embrace the concept of an individualized learning approach in our learning community. VAL offers an individualized learning approach to mastering core content and skills. Most importantly, I believe all children have a right to a quality education that will prepare them to be successful in college and/or career and lifelong learners.  

Reimagining Learning. Pursuing Excellence!!!