Wright, Mills and Ayers tabbed to fill RCS administrative vacancies
Personnel moves, including the hiring of two new principals and an assistant superintendent, comprised the entirety of the agenda at a May 29th special called meeting of the Russellville City Schools Board of Education.
Gayla Mills was hired as the new principal at West Elementary School and Channing Wright the new principal at Russellville Elementary School.
Nate Ayers was hired as the system’s new assistant superintendent, filling the vacancy created with the recent retirement of Dr. Chris James.
RCS Superintendent Dr. Tim Guinn made the personnel recommendations, citing the experience of both new administrators.
After the meeting, Guinn explained what stood out about the two new principals.
“We are excited to name Gayla Mills as the next principal of West Elementary School. With a total of 32 years in education, both as a teacher and administrator, Gayla has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to student learning and school improvement,” Guinn said. “Her dedication to fostering a positive school culture and supporting both students and staff has earned the respect of colleagues and families, not just in our community but across the northern region of our state.”
Guinn was especially impressed with Wright’s student-centered approach to teaching, along with her experience.
“Channing has dedicated 15 years to public education, serving students and families with distinction as both a classroom teacher and educational leader,” Guinn said. “Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a student-centered approach to teaching, a commitment to academic excellence, and a passion for building strong relationships with staff, students and families.”
Other personnel moves approved by the board at its May 29th meeting included: accepting the resignation of Russellville Middle School TEAMS teacher Celeste McCollum and RHS teacher Ches Dye and the retirement of RES teacher Carol Fretwell and approving a TEAMS contract for RHS science teacher Hunter Kilpatrick.