Spotlight on the new executive director at Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School  for Government and International Studies

One of Virginia’s most selective high schools is starting the new academic year with Kristin Janssen as its executive director — a role that blends administrative oversight with her lifelong passion for teaching. Janssen’s bond with Maggie Walker is personal: Her son graduated in 2023, giving her insight into the student experience she now hopes to expand for every child. 

“My son had a really wonderful experience at Maggie Walker. I want every child who walks through the doors to have that same experience,” Janssen said. “I love students, and that’s why I went into education. There’s never a time when I don’t get excited about school.” 

Janssen’s enthusiasm for education came early. She played school as a young girl and pursued her dream at Longwood University, where she studied English. Her first teaching job was as an English teacher at Colonial Heights High School. After moving through the ranks as a gifted coordinator, assistant principal, and career and technical administrator, she landed the job of high school principal. She later served as director of curriculum and assessment in Colonial Heights and Buckingham County. 

Her love of students eventually drew her back to school leadership. When the executive director position opened at Maggie Walker, she applied immediately. 

“This is a very unique position because it’s not a traditional principal role,” she said. “You wear a principal lens, but then you have a lot of nuances because you’re working with a board and foundation. I wear a central office hat and a principal hat.” 

Her tenure comes at a pivotal moment. The school has long been a point of pride in Virginia, but it has also faced criticism for the underrepresentation of underprivileged and minority students in its admissions. Janssen acknowledges those challenges and says she is committed to working within the parameters set by the 14 school systems that feed into Maggie Walker. One of her first major projects will be leading the update of the 2023 strategic plan that focuses on long-term inclusivity goals. 

“We always want to make gains,” Janssen said. “For me, it’s being present and listening. I want our students to feel valuable and seen.” 

In addition to taking on her new role, Janssen is working toward a doctorate in education and is in the midst of writing her dissertation — a reflection of the curiosity and commitment to learning that she hopes to instill in students. 

“I love being around smart, curious people,” Janssen said. “At Maggie Walker, you’re dealing with a lot of really smart people; the staff, faculty and students. I want to be a part of helping the students get to commencement so they can go out into the world and do great things.” 

Where were you born? 

Born in Henrico and grew up in Chesterfield. I went to L.C. Bird High School. 

Where do you live now? 

Midlothian. 

Education: 

I have a bachelor’s in English from Longwood University and a master’s in teaching from VCU. 

Tell me about your family. 

I grew up with two brothers who gave me different perspectives. I’m married with two sons. 

Can you share a brief history of Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies? 

Maggie L. Walker High School was built in 1937 and named in honor of the first woman and the first African American woman to found a chartered bank in the United States. It was one of two schools for Black students in the Richmond area during the time of racial segregation. In 2001, the high school, which had been abandoned since 1990, reopened as Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies. 

The school has a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created solely to support and enhance academic enrichment opportunities, underwriting initiatives such as academic competitions, student travel, new technology and student aid. 

What is its mission? 

To provide comprehensive educational opportunities that advance gifted students’ understanding of world cultures and languages. Our diverse and supportive community develops students’ character and ability to contribute, collaborate and lead. 

When did you take over as executive director? 

July 1. 

What are your goals for Maggie Walker in terms of curriculum, student experience and community impact? 

We’re in a very beautiful historic building named after a trailblazer. I want to expand our four pillars of the Walker Way — courage, compassion, community and collaboration. I want to listen to what the students have to say and build on what’s already in place. 

What does success in this position look like to you in the next two to three years? 

It’s the commencement ceremony, marking the end of students’ academic journey and their transition into the world. I also want an active PTSA and to update the facilities. 

What strategies are you putting in place to sustain and expand on recent gains in enrollment diversity? 

When it comes to the application process, the school districts do that. They have looked at that to improve it and make it more inclusive. Because of that, we are becoming more diverse. I also want to build a more diverse staff. 

How do you respond to those who worry admissions changes could compromise academic rigor? 

I haven’t seen that at all in education. When you tell students where the bar is, they’ll reach it. We can’t make predeterminations based on biases. 

What concrete initiatives are you implementing to create a more inclusive environment? 

We already have the pillars. We’re in the process of updating the strategic plan that incorporates our efforts for diversity and inclusion. 

How will you engage families from underrepresented backgrounds who may feel disconnected from the admissions process or school culture? 

Groundwork was laid for me. I just had to pick up the effort. We have a school social worker who helps us. The foundation is laid during the ninth-grade family night. I get face time with the parents of students just entering. I want them to feel comfortable with me. 

Given the history of disparities, what would you say to families who believe Maggie Walker was not built for their children? 

I think the outreach and efforts we’re making, as well as the 14 districts, reflect our desire for diversity and different thinking and culture. We’re doing a different model since my son was there. We’re visiting localities with student leaders to explain why kids would be a good fit for the school through informational sessions. 

How do you start your day? 

I walk my dog with my husband in any kind of weather. It’s a brisk 30-minute walk. I love routine and being outside. 

Who is your dream dinner party guest? 

My husband’s grandfather was a two-star Army general and a doctor in the Army. I was young when he died, and I didn’t have the maturity to ask him about his selflessness and what led him to be such a humanitarian. 

What are the three words that best describe you? 

Small (in stature), curious and generous. 

What is a quote that inspires you? 

“If you could only sense how important you are to the lives of those you meet; how important you can be to the people you may never even dream of,” by Fred Rogers, a.k.a. Mister Rogers. 

Who has had the most influence in your life? 

My mom, but also all the students. 

What’s a book that has influenced you? 

“Brave New World,” by Aldous Huxley. 

What are you currently reading? 

“Death by Meeting,” by Patrick Lencioni. 

What is next for you? 

Completing my dissertation will be a great accomplishment.