Journey to the Jungle: How Blake Appointed Its New Principal

With the recent announcement that Principal Snead is departing Blake after two years, it’s with great question (and some concern) that we consider what’s next for Blake. On June 5th, 2025, The Blake Beat sat down with SGA members and Montgomery County Public Schools Director Dr. Dodd, as he spoke with students to ask about what they would like in a new principal. 

Before the sit-down, The Blake Beat published a survey on social media asking students what key priorities our new principal should focus on, what event or thing they would like to see come to Blake, and what the student body would like to see in a new principal. The key priorities were focused on Arts and Humanities (Blake’s signature program), with 38% of the votes. The events/things students wanted to see more of at Blake focused on school spirit, with ideas such as a talent show, winter formal, a short film festival, and more music events. The student body overall wished for a passionate, visible, and fun principal. 

June 5th: A Crucial Conversation with MCPS Director Dr. Dodd

On June 5th, 2025, MCPS Director Dr. Dodd met with Blake student leaders for a discussion about the future James Hubert Blake High School Principal. “The purpose of today’s meeting is to walk you through the principal selection process and get the community involved,” Dr. Dodd said as he opened the conversation. From there, Student Government and Class Council members shared their input.

The student leaders mentioned Blake’s “arts program [being] underfunded,” and how “[students] want more support.” Cameron Lang, Class of 2027 President, called for more expanded programs, especially those that are available at other schools. Meklit Tesfera, SGA Secretary, emphasized that the new principal “should publicize and support the arts program.”

SGA President Abigail Zeigler noted that our community should know just how much pride our principal has towards Blake. “In a way that everyone sees it.”

SGA Vice President Fallon Gyapong emphasized the importance of inclusive engagement. Saying the new principal should “Share [on social media] every student’s event, not just a certain group.” She also stressed school safety and academic support. “We need to support students who are struggling academically.”

Other key concerns were a lack of academic accountability, low school spirit, attendance, enforcement of rules, and a need for more visible leadership around the building. 

“Making sure students SEE the principal,” said Viola Gordon, SGA Events Coordinator. “Someone everyone knows and someone [who is] is always around.”

The Process of Choosing Our New Principal: 

Dr. Dodd, who oversees over 13 high schools, including Blake and Springbrook, outlined how MCPS approached the search. 

At the time of the June 5th meeting, the national search had already closed, and applicants were being evaluated. According to Dr. Dodd, candidates were screened to meet three key criterias identified by a Blake community survey. A safe and secure school environment, rigorous academic standards, and strong support for Blake’s performing arts identity.

Each applicant went through a rigorous background check and review. A Blake community panel (including staff and family representatives) interviewed candidates and shared their feedback with MCPS directors. From there, three finalists met with Superintendent Dr. Taylor for final consideration.

Throughout this process, Dr Dodd emphasized: “We want principals who are not just interested in leading a school in MCPS, but who want to be a part of Blake and its community.”

The Outcome: Our New Principal, Mr. Ahemed Adelekan, Steps In!!

Following the meeting in June and the selective selection process, MCPS officially named Mr. Ahmed Adelekan as the next principal of James Hubert Blake High School. His appointment took effect on July 11th, 2025. 

In his introductory letter, Mr. Adelekan acknowledged the school’s legacy and outlined a vision that echoed many of the student concerns voiced during the June 5th meeting. 

“Blake’s renowned reputation for academic and artistic excellence, diversity, and dedication to providing students with a comprehensive education is what truly captivates me.”

Having served as assistant principal at Briggs Cheney Middle School and, most recently principal at Benjamin Banneker Middle School. Mr. Adelekan brings over two decades of MCPS experience, from special education teacher to school administrator. 

The Pawsome Future Ahead:

The energy and engagement from Blake students during the search process proves to show a community ready to collaborate and advocate for its future. With a new principal who values connection and equity, Blake is in good hands. Bengals, as Mr. Adelekan takes the role of our new principal, students and staff can expect to be seen and to be heard.