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By DONALD MOTTERN | Staff Writer

PELHAM – On April 30, the Pelham City Schools Board of Education officially named current Assistant Principal Khadidr Jones as the next principal of Pelham Ridge Elementary School during a regularly scheduled board meeting.

Jones’ promotion to the position comes after the announcement that current principal, Lisa Baxter, would be retiring in July after the conclusion of the current school year.

“Mrs. Jones has demonstrated unwavering commitment and dedication throughout her tenure in Pelham City Schools,” Superintendent Chuck Ledbetter said. “I’m confident in her ability to lead Pelham Ridge Elementary School, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact she will continue to make in the lives of our students.”

Having been the current assistant principal for the past five years, Jones also previously taught at the school prior to her role in administration. In total, she has been a face in the halls at Pelham Ridge Elementary and within Pelham City Schools for nine years. Jones is a graduate of Florida A&M University having received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is also a graduate of both Auburn University in Montgomery and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she received master’s degrees in psychology and education respectively.

“Leaving Pelham Ridge Elementary School in the capable hands of Khadidr Jones fills me with excitement,” Baxter said. “Together, we will ensure a smooth transition this summer. I have 100 percent confidence in her leadership.”

The announcement of Jones’ promotion, which was among the topics specifically covered by the board and Ledbetter, was received with applause during the meeting and saw Jones’ family attend with support and words of encouragement. Jones’ selection was subsequently announced online and via Pelham City Schools’ official Facebook page the following day on Wednesday, May 1.

“I look forward to the opportunity to continue to build a school culture that invests in the lives of children daily, believes in collective efficacy and supports educational programs where student learning and growth are priority,” Jones said. “Being a school leader isn’t about acting alone—rather, it’s about involving the whole school community and taking our students forward together.”

Jones will take over in the position of principal at Pelham Ridge Elementary School over the summer break and begin her first school year in the position this upcoming August.