GREENFIELD — Two decades after leaving the school district, former Newton School Principal Carol Jacobs is back at the helm in an interim capacity.

Jacobs is filling the principal position that was left vacant following the abrupt resignation of Sadie Cora, effective Nov. 27. Cora had held the role since August.

In a letter sent to Newton School parents and families on Nov. 22, Superintendent Karin Patenaude announced Jacobs’ return, noting that the district will conduct an “extensive search” for a permanent principal in the spring.

Jacobs, who stepped into her new role on Thursday after meeting with parents the night before, began her career in education when she was hired to work as a first grade teacher at the Davis Street School in 1979. She later served as Newton School’s acting principal after former Principal Mike Smith left.

In her roughly 35-year career in education, Jacobs has also served as Greenfield’s director of teaching, learning and accountability, and as the Quaboag Regional School District superintendent. A Montague resident, she also serves on the Gill-Montague Regional School District School Committee.

“My job is to come in and take a look at everything and be able to identify some of the things that are going well, that we want to continue to build on, or maybe solidify, and then I’m sure there are going to be some things that we’re going to want to take a look at more critically,” Jacobs said of returning to Newton School. “I like challenge, I like change. I love to be with kids and teachers, parents, because it’s just about building a community.”

Before a group of students welcomed Jacobs with a bouquet of flowers and a homemade poster on her first day back at work on Thursday, she said she recognized some of her former colleagues.

Of the numerous education roles she has held in her career, Jacobs said she most enjoyed being a principal.

“I loved being with the kids. I love seeing teaching, learning and action. I appreciate building a positive culture and it becomes a family,” Jacobs said. “Seeing kids achieve and become wonderful young people is something that really makes me happy, it gives me purpose.”

Anthony Cammalleri can be reached at acammalleri@recorder.com or 413-930-4429.