Sandra Oliver Named Principal of Jefferson County High School

FAYETTE, Miss.(JCSD) – May 25, 2025 – The Jefferson County School District is proud to announce the appointment of Mrs. Sandra Oliver as the new Principal of Jefferson County High School for the 2025–2026 school year. A proud Jefferson County native and graduate of Jefferson County High School, Mrs. Oliver returns to lead the very institution that helped shape her personal and professional journey. Her appointment represents not just a new chapter for the high school but a full-circle moment of hope, legacy, and purpose for the Jefferson County community.

Mrs. Oliver began her career in the Jefferson County School District in 2001 as a kindergarten teacher at Jefferson County Elementary School. Over the last 24 years, she demonstrated exceptional instructional versatility, teaching across a wide range of grade levels, including first, sixth, ninth, and tenth. Her direct classroom experience has given her a deep understanding of student development, academic progression, and instructional needs across the K–12 spectrum. In 2007, she reached a prestigious milestone in her career by becoming a National Board Certified Teacher, a distinction awarded to educators who demonstrate the highest levels of teaching excellence.

Mrs. Oliver completed the Principal Corps program through the University of Mississippi, earning a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership in 2018. She also holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Elementary Education from Alcorn State University, a testament to her unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and academic rigor. That same year, she accepted her first administrative role as Director of Curriculum and Instruction, where she led district-wide instructional efforts to align teaching practices with rigorous academic standards and improve student achievement.

Mrs. Oliver has served as the Principal of Jefferson County Upper Elementary School, where her leadership has been marked by a student-centered vision, collaborative engagement with teachers and families, and an unrelenting drive to build a school culture rooted in excellence, equity, and care.

Her educational philosophy is grounded in the belief that “all students can learn, given a positive learning environment, strong and knowledgeable leadership, a committed and focused educational team, an encouraging community, and a supportive family.” She considers herself fortunate to serve in a district that embodies all these qualities. Whether working alongside teachers to strengthen instruction or supporting families in fostering student success, Mrs. Oliver brings a purpose-driven, servant-leadership approach to every role she undertakes.

Throughout her career, she has collaborated with diverse teams and communities, always aiming to increase student achievement and promote student well-being. Her leadership is marked by a unique blend of professionalism, compassion, and vision – qualities that have consistently earned students, staff, and parents’ respect and admiration.

Superintendent Dr. Adrian Hammitte expressed his full support and excitement regarding the appointment:

“It is with great enthusiasm and confidence that I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Oliver as the new Principal of our high school. Mrs. Oliver has exemplified dedication, hard work, and a deep commitment to student success and community engagement throughout her distinguished career. I am confident that our high school will continue to thrive as a place of learning, growth, and opportunity under her stewardship.”

As she prepares to begin this new role, Mrs. Oliver is focused on building upon the school’s strengths while working collaboratively with teachers, students, and families to ensure every scholar has the tools to succeed. Her story – from Jefferson County High School student to Jefferson County High School Principal – is a powerful example of what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and a deep love for home.

The Jefferson County School District invites the entire community to congratulate Mrs. Sandra Oliver on her well-deserved appointment and welcome her as she leads Jefferson County High School into a future filled with promise, opportunity, and excellence.