Academy for Urban Scholars Announces Strategic Leadership Promotions
COLUMBUS, OH – Jan 14, 2026 – Marking a decisive commitment to academic excellence and systemic transformation, the Academy for Urban Scholars High School (AUS) has promoted Sabrina Jones from superintendent of education to president of education. In this transition, Dr. Corey Yoakam has been appointed superintendent.
“This transition into the role of president of education is not by happenstance but by destiny,” said Jones. “As we move forward, my focus is on strengthening our vision, fostering innovation, and building sustainable pathways for success.”
Jones has more than 20 years of experience in education. Over half of her experience has been with AUS, serving as the director of special education and the school director for the Youngstown campus. In her new role, she will lead academic strategy, instructional leadership, and long-term educational planning across all the school’s campuses in Columbus, Youngstown, Canton, and Toledo.
“As AUS continues to grow, it is critical that our leadership evolves with it,” said Drs. Gregory, founders of the National Center for Urban Solutions, the parent company of AUS. “Elevating Sabrina Jones and appointing Dr. Yoakam as superintendent strengthens our academic foundation and reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality, student-centered education across every campus.”
Dr. Yoakam, who previously served as director of innovative academics for AUS’s Youngstown campus, brings nearly 15 years of experience in education and will assume Jones’s former role, overseeing academic operations, curriculum implementation, and instructional outcomes across all campuses.
“I am honored to step into the role of superintendent of education for the Academy for Urban Scholars,” said Dr. Yoakam. “We are focused on literacy in all its forms, including reading, financial, workforce, and artificial intelligence literacy, and delivering instruction in innovative ways that prepare scholars not only for today but for the future.”
Jones holds a bachelor’s degree in special education and teaching and a Master of Education degree in mental health counseling from Youngstown State University. Dr. Yoakam also received his bachelor’s degree in special education and teaching from Youngstown State University and earned his Master’s and Doctor of Education degrees in educational leadership and administration from the American College of Education.
About Academy for Urban Scholars High School
The Academy for Urban Scholars High School serves students in Columbus, Youngstown, Canton, and Toledo. The mission is centered on closing the education gap through innovative, career-focused learning. By integrating emerging technologies and workforce-aligned instruction, AUS prepares scholars to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market.
For more information about the Academy for Urban Scholars High School, visit ausohio.com
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La’Var Howell
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Lhowell@ncusolutions.com