NEWS RELEASE
Release Date: January 20, 2012
Contact: Pete Smith, Director of Legislation, 601-359-1336

Northwest Rankin High School Principal named 2011 Mississippi Administrator of the Year

Jackson, Miss. – The Mississippi Board of Education (MBE) today announced Richard Morrison as the 2011 Administrator of the Year.  Morrison has been a principal at Northwest Rankin High School since 2008 and has served as an educator for more than 20 years.

“He has been described as an administrator who distinguishes himself from others by his genuine concern for all students and an open door policy that encourages equal access for students, parents, community members and teachers.  He makes education relevant by embracing technology and using data and research to drive decisions,” MBE Chairman Charles McClelland said. 

"My vision for improvement, development and enhancement of my responsibilities include a continued focus on rigor, relevance and relationships within the classroom,” Morrison said. “Additionally, I envision growing partnerships among parents, the community and business leaders.  We must continue to emphasize innovative and effective teaching strategies to improve student learning.”

Other Congressional District Finalists include: Dr. Deborah Davis, principal of Thomas Street Elementary (Tupelo Public School District), Dr. Debra Mays-Jackson, principal of Forest Hill High School (Jackson Public School District) and Dr. Kenneth Culpepper, principal of Mason Elementary School (Laurel School District). 

Pictured with Richard Morrison is Charles McClelland, Chairman of the Mississippi Board of Education and Dr. Tom Burnham, State Superintendent of Education

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