The John Milledge Academy (JMA) Board of Trustees announced the appointment of David Allen Simmons Jr. (Allen) to serve as the next head of school. Allen Simmons, a graduate of Parkview High School, is originally from Lilburn. While attending Georgia College & State University, Simmons began his career in education at JMA. After completing his degree at Georgia College, he moved on to teach and coach at Jones County High School. After four years, he joined the team at Georgia Military College Prep School in 2010.
“I began my career here 20-plus years ago, hired by the legendary Larry Prestridge,” wrote Simmons in a letter to JMA families.
“What a privilege it is to be back at the school that made such an incredible impact on me.”
With his multi-faceted leadership roles and a career spanning over two decades; Simmons has been a dedicated teacher, an award-winning coach, a supportive athletic director, and a highly regarded and compassionate associate principal.
His most recent role was as vice president of advancement and executive director of the GMC Foundation. Through Simmons’ personal networking and community engagement, donor participation significantly increased and far surpassed fundraising objectives under his leadership. Throughout his career, he has exemplified dedication to education, demonstrated dynamic leadership, and made a substantial impact in fundraising while playing a pivotal role in the success of the lives of students.
Simmons holds a bachelor's degree in history from Georgia College, a master's degree in education from Georgia Southern University, and an education specialist degree in educational leadership from Georgia College. Additionally, he further enriched his expertise by earning multiple graduate certificates in school management and leadership from Harvard University.
Simmons said he looks forward to focusing on a successful strategic plan that encompasses the execution of academic excellence, enriches the student experience, enhances alumni engagement, and furthers the progression of campus improvements. Continuing to keep a Christ-centered family environment that strengthens students in mind, body, and spirit remains essential towards JMA’s mission.
“I believe that the heart of a school is its people, and, in our case, we are lucky enough to call these people family,” wrote Simmons. “Partnering with our dedicated teachers, staff, students, and families, I will continue to foster a positive environment where we all excel.”
With his visionary leadership, continued support from the talented professionals and businesses in the community, as well as healthy alumni engagement, Simmons plans to continue to grow the school in quantity as well as quality.
Simmons is married to Amber Hutcheson Simmons of Milledgeville, who is a JMA alum of the class of 2001. They have two daughters, Madi Grace (17) who plans to attend the University of Mississippi in August and Darci (13) who will be in eighth grade at JMA.