Janet McDowell’s dynamic leadership has been instrumental in shaping the academic and personal success of students across Cleveland, Ohio. Now serving as the proud leader of Ginn Thompson School for Girls, she brings a powerful, girl-forward approach that uplifts and empowers young women to excel academically, socially, and emotionally. Her transformative leadership style has led to significant improvements in student performance, attendance, and school culture—all while creating a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment where girls can thrive.
Janet is currently completing her Doctor of Education in Leadership and Learning, with a focus on Organizational Leadership, and brings over two decades of experience in diverse educational settings including urban, PK-8, high school, bilingual, gifted, and school redesign environments. At the heart of her work is a passion for developing confident, resilient girls who are prepared to lead with purpose.
As a proven change agent, Janet is known for setting high expectations, fostering student voice, and creating schoolwide systems that maximize instructional time and character development. Her core strengths include mentoring school leaders, leading data-driven instruction, elevating student culture, and facilitating high-impact professional development. At Ginn Thompson, she has implemented a girl-centered approach to teaching and learning that celebrates academic achievement, emotional intelligence, and leadership development.
In recognition of her exceptional impact, Janet was named Principal of the Year by the Ohio Alliance of Black School Educators in 2015. She is also a proud graduate of the National Principal Academy Fellowship at RELAY/GSE, New York. Her additional accolades include national recognition for promoting Positive & Effective Learning Environments, implementing Social Emotional Learning (SEL), and advancing school climate through programs like PATHS (Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies). She has presented nationally on the importance of SEL, particularly in urban school settings.
Beyond her work in schools, Janet is the Founder of JMcDowell Leadership Consulting Group, where she leads the Principal Refresher Coaching Program—a unique platform designed to equip educational leaders with the tools and strategies they need to grow in their roles and better serve their school communities.
At Ginn Thompson School for Girls, Janet McDowell leads with the firm belief that when girls are seen, heard, and challenged—they lead, achieve, and change the world.
