Phoenix International School of the Arts Announces New Leadership Team
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dr. Jasmine Bateman Named Principal, Bryan Hill to Serve as Assistant Principal
LA PLATA, MD (May 14, 2025) - Phoenix International School of the Arts (PISOTA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jasmine C. Bateman as Principal and Mr. Bryan L. Hill as Assistant Principal, following an extensive selection process that engaged stakeholders from across the school community.
The comprehensive search process included multiple rounds of interviews, including a community panel comprising current PISOTA parents, scholars, faculty and staff, and community leaders who provided valuable input on the final candidates.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Bateman and Mr. Hill to lead PISOTA into its next chapter," said Angelica Jackson, Cofounder and Chief Executive Officer of Phoenix International School of the Arts. "Their combined experience in instructional leadership and arts integration perfectly aligns with our mission to inspire the next generation of global artists, scholars, innovators, and changemakers."
Dr. Bateman brings extensive administrative experience to her new role, most recently serving as Instructional Assistant Principal at Thomas Stone High School in Charles County. Her background includes oversight of academic and instructional programs, professional development implementation, and creating positive school culture. Dr. Bateman holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Saint Peter's University and superintendency certification in both Maryland and New Jersey.
"I am honored to join the Phoenix International School of the Arts community, and I am committed to listening, learning, and leading with integrity," said Dr. Bateman. “At PISOTA, we are committed to fostering a community rooted in creativity, purpose, and unity—where Reflecting, Innovating, Serving, and striving for Excellence (R.I.S.E.) are not only values, but vital components of our educational and leadership culture. We believe that through a shared vision, we create an environment where every voice is heard, every talent is cultivated, and every individual is empowered to thrive. These guiding principles will serve as the foundation for our collective success and sustained growth. “Together, we will R.I.S.E. to S.O.A.R.”—Serving Others, Creating Opportunities for Success, Accomplishing Academic Greatness, and Reaching our Fullest Potential.”
Mr. Hill, currently Assistant Principal at Dr. Thomas L. Higdon Elementary School, brings over 20 years of experience in arts education and administration. As a former Visual Arts teacher with degrees in Art Education and Educational Administration, Mr. Hill has been recognized for excellence in teaching, including receiving the Mayor's Art Award for Excellence in Teaching in Washington, D.C.
"I am thrilled to join the PISOTA community and champion a vision where arts integration is at the heart of teaching and learning," said Mr. Hill. "I believe that when the arts are woven meaningfully into all subject areas, students not only deepen their understanding, but also discover new ways to express themselves and connect with the world. What excites me most is working alongside [Dr. Bateman], passionate educators, families, and students to create an environment where creativity drives academic excellence and every learner feels seen, valued, and inspired. Together, we will build a school culture that nurtures both artistic expression and intellectual growth.”
The selection process reflected PISOTA's commitment to community involvement, with a diverse stakeholder panel participating in candidate interviews on April 24, 2025. The panel included parents/caretakers, current PISOTA scholars, teachers, and community leaders who provided valuable feedback that informed the final selection.
Dr. Bateman and Mr. Hill will begin their new roles on July 1, 2025, following a transition period working with current leadership.
About Phoenix International School of the Arts
Phoenix International School of the Arts (PISOTA) is the first and only public charter school in Charles County, Maryland, and first-approved arts school serving southern Maryland middle school students through a curriculum that combines rigorous academics with intensive arts training. PISOTA's mission is to inspire and prepare the next generation of global artists, scholars, innovators, and changemakers to use their intrinsic gifts to make the world a better place. For more information, visit www.pisota.org.
Media Contact:
Angelica Jackson
Chief Executive Officer
Hello@pisota.org
301-753-2098
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