Cook named as superintendent of CCSD

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Vicksburg native, William “Billy” Cook has been named the superintendent of the Chickasaw County School District.

Cook is a native of Warren County and graduated from Warren Central High School in 1997. From there, Cook went to Mississippi State University and played football for the Bulldogs before a knee injury forced him to stop playing.

Cook then changed direction and went into education and coaching. After getting his bachelor’s degree from MSU, Cook attended Arkansas State University and earned his master’s degree in education leadership.

Cook has spent 22 years as an educator in Houston, now Chickasaw County School District. He spent eight years as a special education teacher and served as an assistant football coach and powerlifting coach. Cook also taught history for four years and served as head football coach and Athletic Director. During his time as head coach, he was able to coach Chris Jones, who is a three-time Super Bowl champion, a six-time All-Pro member, and a seven-time Pro Bowler.

Cook went on to serve as an assistant principal of Houston Middle School for two years before being named principal of the school for two more years. He also served as assistant principal of Houston High School for half a year and became principal of the school for two and a half additional years leading the school to an “A” rating.

For the past three years, Cook has served as Director of Curriculum & Federal Programs and helped the district maintain an “A” rating during that time.

Cook comes from a long line of educators. He is the son of William and Pam Cook. His father was a teacher and basketball coach and his grandmother was a longtime fourth grade teacher. He is married to Dr. Karen Cook who teaches agriculture at Houston CTE Center. He has two sons: Steven Cook, who is sophomore at MSU majoring in electrical engineering and Coy Cook who is a fifth grader.

Cook said he envisions a positive future for the school district.

“I am honored to serve as Superintendent of Chickasaw County School District. This community has a strong tradition of blue collar work ethic and great schools. I look forward to working alongside our students, staff, and families to continue to building on that foundation. Our focus will remain on: providing a high quality education, student and staff safety, and remaining financially sound,” said Cook.