By Nicole Thomas
The Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District Board of Trustees approved numerous personnel recommendations for the 2017-18 school year during a special called board meeting on Thursday, including the rotation of three leadership positions.
West Elementary Principal Andrea Smith is transferring to Director of Assessment and Intervention. Henderson Ward Stewart Assistant Principal Gabrielle Mills is moving to principal of West Elementary School. Director of Assessment and Intervention Julie Fancher is transferring to assistant principal of HWS.
“Smith, Mills, and Fancher are experienced educators who share an understanding of the importance of curriculum, instruction and assessment and how those key areas work together to maximize student achievement,” said Supt. Eddie Peasant. “Their knowledge and expertise across multiple levels add to the strength of our leadership team.”
The board also approved the hiring of Gregory Stephens, who is joining the administrative team at Starkville High School as an assistant principal. Stephens has served as a principal and assistant principal since 2004. He spent the last year as an assistant principal at Leake Central High School. Stephens holds multiple graduate and undergraduate degrees from Mississippi State University, including his doctorate in educational leadership.
“Dr. Stephens brings 13 years of administrative experience to the high school, and we’re excited to welcome him to the Jacket nation,” said Principal Sean McDonnall.