Popular DNES principal takes supervisor's job with county

By Staff
Tracy B. Cieniewicz, Hartselle Enquirer
Award-winning educational leader Jeremy Jones is leaving his post as Danville-Neel Elementary School's principal to become supervisor of elementary education for the Morgan County Board of Education.
Jones, named a Milken National Educator by the Milken Foundation in 2002, and DNES faculty, staff and students have won numerous local, state and national awards since Jones was named principal six years ago. However, Jones takes little personal credit for the school's accomplishments.
"The success of Danville-Neel Elementary School has truly been a collaborative effort between the teachers, students, staff, custodians, parents, community, and the Morgan County Board of Education in making steps towards our goal of everyday educational excellence," Jones said. "It was them, not me, who made Danville-Neel Elementary such a wonderful learning environment. I was just lucky to be part of the experience."
Superintendent Don Murphy recommended Jones for the position after Winnie Tepper retired in July. He was one of seven applicants for the position.
As supervisor of elementary education, Jones will work with principals and teachers on curriculum and also take over the duties of test coordinator. Jones hopes to concentrate efforts on expanding the Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI) and Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative (AMSTI), increase school grants and promote business partnerships throughout Morgan County.
"This position will be working as a facilitator with building principals and classroom teachers, along with the Morgan County Board of Education, to improve classroom instruction and allow more education opportunities to take place," Jones explained. "We'll be strategically looking at each school's individual needs, prioritizing those needs and making a plan to meet their needs."
With Morgan County Schools beginning Aug. 12, Jones will split his time between the two positions until a replacement is found for DNES. While he is excited about his new position, Jones said he will miss his DNES family.
"It's emotionally draining to think about leaving," Jones admitted. "I never knew you could love your coworker family this much."