Debbie Queen named interim principal

F.E. Burleson Elementary Principal Sherry Calvert will retire April 1.

Hartselle School Superintendent Dr. Vic Wilson told the Hartselle Board of Education during Monday’s monthly meeting that Calvert told her staff Monday afternoon during a faculty meeting.

The board accepted her retirement and appointed Lead Teacher Debbie Queen as the interim principal.

“(Calvert) has been a fabulous leader and a wonderful person to work with,” Wilson said. “I hate to lose her because of what she’s done to put the right people in place like Debbie Queen so that they can continue to be successful. I wish her a ton of luck in the future. Whatever we lose will benefit the people in her next endeavor.”

Calvert came to Burleson Elementary in 2005 and spent 10 years building success at the school, earning Blue Ribbon Lighthouse School and Green Ribbon School recognitions along with other awards.

Calvert did not attend Monday’s meeting.

Queen said “a lot of tears” were shed when she announced her plans to the staff.

“It was a bittersweet moment for us,” Queen said. “She’s been with us for 10 years. She’s done a great job of bringing a lot of great ideas. I’m happy for her, but we’re going to miss her.”

Queen, who is a former FEB student, said she is happy for the opportunity to be interim principal.

“I just want to provide a smooth transition for everyone,” Queen said. “I just want to continue what Mrs. Calvert started and keep it going through the end of the school year.”

Wilson said the principal’s job will be posted. Résumés will be accepted and interviews will be conducted through April. He hopes to recommend a new principal by the board’s May meeting.