by Alice L. Williams

COURTLAND
Southampton County Public Schools is pleased and excited to announce that Rickeita Blunt Jones has been appointed as principal of Meherrin Elementary School, and she begins work today, Nov. 1.

Jones is a former employee of Southampton County Public Schools and brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the position.

A graduate of Southampton High School, she has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Virginia Union University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Virginia State University. Jones began her career in education in 2008 with Richmond Public Schools. In 2013, she returned to Southampton County Public Schools as the Fresh Start Program manager. From 2015 to 2017, Jones worked for Henrico County Public Schools.

Her philosophy of educational leadership embraces the importance of all stakeholders taking an active role in the education of students. As a leader, she has pledged to use her knowledge and abilities to be a compassionate and enthusiastic educator who will make a positive contribution to the school.

Southampton County Public Schools is pleased that Jones has accepted this leadership role at Meherrin Elementary School. A “Meet and Greet” reception will be held in the near future for all stakeholders to formally meet the new principal.

Debra Hicks, director of Accountability and School Improvement, who has been serving as the interim principal, will continue to provide support and assistance to the faculty, staff and students of the school during the transition.

ALICE L. WILLIAMS is the director of Marketing and Human Resources, Southampton County Public Schools.