Assistant Principals

Jesse Draud

Assistant Principal, 7th–12th Grade

Jesse L. Draud was born and raised in Northern Kentucky, with a deep love and passion for the ARTS. After high school, Mr. Draud spent his undergraduate years at both Northern Kentucky University and the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Theatre, Mr. Draud was accepted into the University of Cincinnati College of Law. In 2012, Mr. Draud received his Juris Doctorate, and his path to education followed shortly after.

Mr. Draud began his education career in Seattle, Washington teaching history and drama. During his tenure in Washington, he directed and vocal coached musicals at both the middle school and high school level. Upon returning to the tri-state, he began his Master’s in Education at Xavier while teaching Psychology and Sociology. Most recently, Mr. Draud was working as an Assistant Principal where he was the coordinator of all building assessments, PBIS initiatives, Restorative Practices, and the Arts in Mind (AIM) grant funding.

When Jesse isn’t working, he loves spending time with his family, bowling, going to see live theatre, and hanging out with his English Bulldog Lily Pad.

Isabelle Kalubi Harper

Assistant Principal, 4th–6th grades

Isabelle Kalubi Harper is an educational leader committed to creating schools where every student is challenged, supported, and empowered to succeed. With experience in private, charter, and public schools, Isabelle began her career as a middle school social studies teacher, where she developed a passion for helping students think critically, engage with diverse perspectives, and become active, informed citizens. Those experiences continue to shape her approach to leadership today.

As an assistant principal, Isabelle is known for building strong relationships, developing teacher capacity, and creating systems that improve outcomes for students. She believes transformational leadership begins with high expectations, meaningful collaboration, and an unwavering belief in the strengths and potential of every learner. She is passionate about fostering rigorous, engaging instruction while creating school cultures where students feel seen, valued, and inspired to lead.

Prior to her work as an educator, Isabelle served as Senior Coordinator of Youth Programs at Cincinnati Museum Center. There, she designed and led programs focused on youth leadership, career exploration, college readiness, and diversity and inclusion, providing students with transformative learning experiences while guiding them through the college admission process.

A lifelong Cincinnatian, Isabelle's family has called the city home since her parents emigrated from the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 1980s. She and her husband, Calvin, are proud parents of their son, Trey. Outside of her professional work, Isabelle enjoys cheering on Trey as a dedicated sports mom, exploring new destinations through travel, and discovering local restaurants and cuisines as a self-proclaimed foodie. She believes that experiencing different cultures, people, and perspectives enriches both her personal life and her work as an educator.

Lanisha Simmons

Assistant Principal, K–3rd Grade

Mrs. Lanisha Simmons is excited to join the School for Creative and Performing Arts as Assistant Principal. With more than 15 years of experience in education, she has served as a teacher, leader, and assistant principal. Throughout her career, she has focused on creating schools where students are known, challenged, and supported.

Mrs. Simmons holds master’s degrees in Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership. She believes every student deserves access to equitable, high-quality learning experiences and that strong relationships are the foundation of student success. She is committed to ensuring every student, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to the instruction and support needed to thrive.

When she is not at school, Mrs. Simmons enjoys traveling, distance running, strength training, and spending time with her husband and daughter. She looks forward to joining the SCPA community and contributing to a school where every student is seen, challenged, and empowered to reach their full potential.