Skip to main content

Barack Obama Elementary

Home of the Obama Stars

Leadership

Leadership

Doctor Jacqueline Drye, Principal, is a veteran educator with almost 30 years of experience. She holds degrees and/or certifications in Early Childhood Education, School Counseling, Educational Leadership and Gifted Education. She also just recently completed her Doctorate degree at the College of William and Mary. Over the years, Dr. Drye has had the pleasure of interacting with the most wonderful students who have inspired her to write many stories, songs, poems and skits. Dr. Drye is a published childrens' book author who seeks to encourage and inspire. There is always a positive message in her works. 

Dr. Drye is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., St. Paul’s Baptist Church and The Richmond Association of Realtors. She enjoys a busy life but always has time for family, friends and for serving her community. Dr. Drye’s plate may be full at times, but like one of her book characters, Jo Jo the Bunny, she keeps on telling herself, “I can do this!”

Phone: 804-780-4879

Email: jdrye@rvaschools.net

Degrees and Certifications:

Bachelor Of Science - James Madison University - 1990

Master of Education - James Madison University - 1993

Post-Master's Certificate in Educational Leadership - VCU - 2010

Doctor of Education - William & Mary - 2023

Assistant Principal Leecost is excited for the 2025-2026 Barack Obama school year and looks forward to supporting students, teachers and parents in the BOES community. She is a two time “Teacher of the Year” and the proud mother of Drew, her son. Ms. Leecost believes in the power of a strong team and in the benefits of continuous development and collaboration.

With more than twenty-five years of experience, Ms. Leecost has
gained a wealth of knowledge from her work in public, private, international, suburban and urban schools ranging from PK to 12th grade. She has worked as a middle school math teacher for 14 years and as an administrator for over 16 years. She is committed to ensuring quality tier one instruction,
equitable support and meaningful learning experiences that prepare and enhance the lives of students.              
Ms. Leecost is a champion for children and is looking forward to a great school year at Barack Obama Elementary.

Phone: 804-780-4879

Email: tleecost2@rvaschools.net

Degrees and Certifications:

Bachelor of Science in Elementary
Education- Old Dominion University

Masters of Science in Administration- Central Michigan University

PK-12 School Leadership and Supervision
Certification-University of West Georgia.

Principal's Message

To my Beloved BOES Parents and Families,

Happy New Year! As we begin this new year and second semester together, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support of our school and, most importantly, of your children. At Barack Obama Elementary School, our kids always come first. Every decision we make, every lesson we teach, and every goal we set is centered on helping our students grow, learn, and succeed.

We are incredibly proud of our students—the STARS of Barack Obama Elementary School. Each day, they shine through their hard work, curiosity, kindness, and determination. It is truly a joy to watch them learn and grow, and we are committed to providing them with a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment.

Good attendance plays a vital role in student success. When students are present and on time each day, they are better able to keep up with learning, build strong habits, and feel connected to their school community. We appreciate your partnership in making regular attendance a priority.

We also thank you for supporting our teachers and staff. Your encouragement and cooperation help strengthen the important work they do every day. When families and teachers work together, students benefit in powerful ways.

Positive behavior is another key to student success. By reinforcing respect, responsibility, and kindness at home and at school, we help our children develop the character skills they need now and in the future. Together, we can ensure our students understand the importance of making good choices and treating others with care.

As we move forward into this new year, we look forward to continuing our strong partnership with you. Together, with a strong Home/School connection, we can help ensure that our students grow into the successful, confident people they were meant to be.

Thank you for being a valued part of our Barack Obama Elementary School family. We wish you and your loved ones a happy, healthy, and successful New Year.

With appreciation and pride,

Dr. Jacqueline Drye, Principal