Sussex Academy has named Dr. Nikki Miller as its new chief academic officer, succeeding Janet Owens who retires June 30 after 26 years with the public charter school.

Miller will begin her role June 1, enabling her to work with Owens during the transition. She will lead the K-12 academic vision for Sussex Academy by ensuring all curriculum, teaching methods and assessments align with the school’s mission and state/federal regulations.

Additionally, Miller will directly supervise and develop campus deans, special populations coordinators, and teaching staff to ensure equitable, high-quality instruction in every classroom.

“I’m honored to join Sussex Academy and build on the strong foundation already in place,” Miller said. “I look forward to working alongside the talented staff, students and families to continue creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire growth, achievement and opportunity for every student.”

Head of School Kyle Bentley said school leaders were thrilled to welcome Miller to Sussex Academy.

“Dr. Miller brings strong K–12 experience, established relationships across the county, and a proven track record of supporting student achievement and instructional growth,” Bentley said. “Her expertise will greatly benefit our students and staff in the years to come.”

With more than 20 years of experience in public education, Miller joins Sussex Academy after a four-year tenure as supervisor of instruction for the Seaford School District, where she led curriculum, instruction, assessment and professional learning in all content areas for 2,600 students across six schools. In addition to her district leadership roles, Miller has mentored master’s and doctoral candidates pursuing administrative certification, led statewide initiatives focused on student residencies and paraeducator-to-teacher pipelines, and serves as an adjunct professor at Wilmington University.

Prior to that role, Miller served as principal of Cape Henlopen High School for five years, where she led initiatives that produced the highest AP participation and passing rates in school history, and as assistant principal at Cape High for three years.

Miller’s experience also includes roles as an assistant principal, social studies teacher and staff developer and instructional coach in the Seaford School District.

Miller earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary social studies education, a master’s degree in applied technology, administrative certification, and a doctorate in educational leadership. Her dedication to education and student success has earned her numerous honors, including Delaware Music Educators Association Principal of the Year, the Pathways to Success Pay It Forward Award, and Coastal Style Magazine’s Best School Administrator recognition.