Message From
Founding Chancellor Dr. Quintessa Hathaway
Greetings, Soaring Hawks Students, Family, And Supporters:
The Hathaway Institute stands in the proud lineage of one of the oldest and largest families in the United States of America. From that heritage and desire to obtain higher educational heights which was born out of resilience and sustained by a profound commitment to access and excellence. In this tradition, the Institute shall serve as both a beacon of opportunity and a catalyst for transformation—cultivating students not only as scholars, but as leaders, change agents, and ethical global citizens.
Our work begins with the students. Every moment, from the day a pupil becomes a Soaring Hawk, through the full spectrum of their academic and co-curricular journey, to the culminating joy of commencement -- is shaped by a holistic vision: that each individual is capable of reaching their fullest potential when supported by a community that believes in their promise.
Guided by the values of integrity, advocacy, and collaboration, we advance a student-centered mission rooted in the ethos of belonging, resilience, and empowerment. These values are not abstract ideals; they are lived practices that shape every aspect of our engagement with students, faculty, staff, and the broader community.
You, we are heirs to an institution founded in faith and sustained by vision. Every student carries genius. Every student carries promise and every student carries light. The Hathaway Institute is a reflection of light. We shall be a beacon of access, a sanctuary of belonging, and platform for excellence.
Our vision begins, and it always begins, with the student. Every Soaring Hawk who comes through our school arrives with possibility, purpose, and power to transform not only their own life, but the lives of their families, their communities, and this nation.
Our task, our calling, our sacred trust as administrators, faculty, and support staff is to nurture and cultivate that spirit and energy. At its best, virtual learning is not simply an alternative to traditional education—it is a catalyst for innovation. It challenges educators to rethink pedagogy, integrate multimedia tools, and design experiences that are interactive and engaging. For families, it provides transparency and involvement, as parents and guardians can more easily observe and support their child’s academic journey.
Thank you entrusting us to perform the awesome task to elevate the consciousness of the community. As we embark on a new year, a chance to dream bigger, strive higher, and walk boldly toward the future that awaits us.
Educationally,
Dr. Quintessa Hathaway
Founding Chancellor
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Message From
Principal Derrick M. Jones
To the Hathaway Institute Family,
It is with great excitement and sincere gratitude that I introduce myself as the new Principal of the Hathaway Institute. I am truly honored to have been chosen to lead such an amazing school and to become part of this outstanding school community. My name is Derrick M. Jones, and I am excited to join a remarkable team of educators who are dedicated to the success, growth, and well-being of our scholars.
I would like to warmly welcome our students, parents, faculty, and staff to the 2026–2027 school year. I am looking forward to working alongside each of you as we continue building a school environment where students are encouraged, challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
I have been blessed to have had an amazing educational journey throughout my career. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy from The Fort Valley State University, a Master’s degree in Agricultural Education from Clemson University, and an Educational Specialist degree from Lincoln Memorial University. I come to Hathaway Institute with 22 years of experience as an educator in a variety of educational settings, from Georgia to Alaska. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with students from Head Start through 12th grade, with most of my experience at the high school level.
While serving in Alaska, the elders at the school gave me the Yu’pik tribal name “Qessassuun,” which means motivator or person who inspires. That name has remained very special to me because, throughout my educational career, I have always believed in motivating and inspiring others to become the very best version of themselves.
As an educator, I often reflect on a quote that has stayed with me for more than 15 years: “If you give a man a fish, you feed him for one day. But if you teach him to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” I truly believe this is what we do as educators. We do more than teach lessons—we help shape lives. We equip young people with knowledge, skills, confidence, and character that can impact them and their families for a lifetime.
As Principal of the Hathaway Institute, my goal is to ensure that every student feels safe, supported, valued, and inspired in an engaging learning environment. I believe in creating a love for learning, encouraging creativity and critical thinking, and cultivating each child’s academic, social, and emotional growth.
As we begin this exciting new school year together, please know how much I value the vital role families play in a child’s success. Your input, involvement, encouragement, and support are essential to the learning experience. I look forward to building strong and lasting relationships with our students, parents, faculty, staff, and community partners.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I welcome your questions, ideas, and feedback. Together, we will continue to make the Hathaway Institute a place where children grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education. I am excited for all that lies ahead, and I look forward to an amazing year as we begin this journey together.
Respectfully,
Derrick M. Jones
Principal
Hathaway Institute