Nansemond-Suffolk Academy on Monday announced the appointment of J. Michael King as the new Head of Upper School.

King, a 1994 graduate of Nansemond-Suffolk Academy, comes from Pitt and Lenoir County schools in North Carolina, where he has served the last eight years. He holds a master’s degree in school supervision and administration, as well as a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in secondary science education, both from East Carolina University. While completing his master’s degree, he was designated a North Carolina Principal Fellow from 2004-2006, during which he consulted with educational administrators, notably those in private education.

King also was a member of the Distinguished Leadership Practices Cohort of North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals, and was a Student Teacher of the Year nominee in 1999.

King has led schools of more than 800 students as an assistant principal and principal.

As a graduate of NSA and a parent of two daughters currently enrolled in an independent school in North Carolina, King is well-versed in the academic demands of an independent school, according to a press release from the academy.

“My educational philosophy supports an environment that is engaging, dynamic and challenging,” King said. “Our students must be ready for the advanced needs of today’s fast-paced, global and technological society. The role of an educator is to provide the students with a learning environment that is energetic and inspires the students to stretch their ability and knowledge, which is exemplified at NSA.”

“While our search attracted a very talented candidate pool, Mike’s academic experience coupled with his strong leadership and communication skills clearly made him the ideal candidate to lead the Upper School at NSA,” Head of School Debbie Russell said. “We are very excited to have a candidate of his caliber and character join our administrative team.”

King will assume his duties at NSA later this summer. He and his wife, Holly, have two daughters who will join NSA as students in August.