By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

COLUMBIANA–Helena Elementary School Principal Mary Cooper was recently appointed to serve as the new Federal Programs Supervisor for Shelby County Schools at the latest board of education meeting.

The board approved the position at the Dec. 14, 2017 meeting as Cooper has more than 23 years of experience as an administrator and 42 years of experience in total as an educator. She has been the principal at Helena Elementary School since 2001 and has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Iowa State University, a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Oakland University and an Ed.S in Educational Leadership from Wayne State University.

“When you approved me for principal, I was living in Nebraska so I did not get the pleasure of addressing the board but I just want to tell you how honored and humbled I am that you would recommend me and that I have the support of Mr. Fuller and the board,” Cooper said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to work with this great instructional team and district team and I hope that I’ll be able to make some valuable contributions that will benefit everyone.”

In addition to Cooper, the board also approved Desaree Jackson as the new principal of Calera Middle School.

The next board of education meeting will be Thursday, Jan. 18 at the central office in Columbiana.