Jana Schultz named Independence Elementary Principal
![Jana Schultz Independence headshot]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1736364429/fhsdschoolsorg/bum5swrxwbpal5ifhvyy/JanaSchultz1.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1736364429/fhsdschoolsorg/bum5swrxwbpal5ifhvyy/JanaSchultz1.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1736364429/fhsdschoolsorg/bum5swrxwbpal5ifhvyy/JanaSchultz1.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1736364429/fhsdschoolsorg/bum5swrxwbpal5ifhvyy/JanaSchultz1.png","width":872}])
The Francis Howell School District has announced that Jana Schultz will serve as the new principal at Independence Elementary School beginning July 1, 2025.
Schultz will take on the role following the retirement of Emily Pavia, who has served as principal at Independence for 18 years.
"I want to thank our community for trusting me to lead Independence Elementary," Schultz said. "I look forward to continuing to work with our team to ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn and grow."
Schultz has served as assistant principal at Independence for 15 years. Schultz began her career as a classroom teacher in Decatur, Illinois, and Ferguson-Florissant. She later joined FHSD as an elementary teacher at Henderson Elementary. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Lindenwood University, a master’s from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, and a specialist degree in educational leadership from Missouri Baptist University.
Schultz’s experience and familiarity with the Independence community will help ensure a smooth transition.