COLUMBIANA -Cornerstone Christian School recently appointed a new school director, and its host church, Bethel Baptist Church, recently welcomed a new pastor.

Current CCS High School Principal Margaret Pickett said she was interviewed alongside several other candidates before she was chosen. Pickett was originally the principal at CCS from 2000 to 2003, before she left to work at several other private Christian schools in Shelby County.

“This is my first year back as the high school principal, and I think they really liked what I’m doing with dual enrollment,” Pickett said. “I’m excited about helping students get to the next level.”

According to Pickett, about 20 students have become enrolled in some type of dual enrollment program during her time as principal.

“The goal with this is to see our students graduate high school with a diploma and an accociate’s degree at the same time.

Pickett said she emphasizes dual enrollment programs for her students because it will save them money and allow them to get a head start on college or trade school.

“In the past, they’ve had early graduation,” Pickett said. “I think it’s even better when we can already knock out some of their college.”

Pickett, who has taught at most Christian private schools in the county, said she would draw on her past experiences to run the school.

“Through all of my experiences, I’ve seen the best practices. For me, teaching at all these different schools was like a living classroom,” Pickett said. “I never planned to return to Cornerstone, so I feel like this is a God thing. Students at CCS are some of the best students I’ve ever worked with.”

In addition to managing teachers and students, Pickett said she looks forward to coordinating the school’s 20^th anniversary festivities.

According to Pickett, Rev. Hal Warren recently became Bethel Baptist Church’s new senior pastor. Pickett said he will serve as a spiritual and emotional counselor for faculty, staff and students.

“He is excited about working with the school. He enjoys the children and they’ve just fallen in love with him,” Pickett said. “He’s a brilliant man who knows how to have fun. He’s got a heart for these kids, and he just wants to support our efforts.”

Pickett said Warren will help fulfill the school’s purpose as a ministry to students.

“Our mission is to equip these children to be successful citizens who love the Lord. We are His hands and feet,” Pickett said.