Aronda Bell named principal of Southampton High School
Published 7:11 pm Tuesday, August 27, 2019
- Aronda Bell has been promoted from interim status to full time as the principal of Southampton High School. She has 24 years of experience in public school education.
By Alice Williams
COURTLAND
After serving as interim principal for one year, Aronda Bell has been named the principal of Southampton High School. Bell has been with Southampton County Public Schools for 21 years serving in multiple roles: Eighth grade transition coordinator; elementary physical education teacher, high school physical education teacher; coach (both head and assistant) of girls’ basketball, volleyball and softball; high school activities director, assistant athletic director, assistant principal; summer school principal and interim principal. She has 24 total years of public school experience.
Dr. Gwendolyn Shannon, division superintendent, has full confidence in Bell’s leadership. Shannon stated, “Mrs. Bell has been a part of the Southampton family for many years. After advertising, interviewing and watching her serve as interim principal, it was clear to me that she was the best candidate for this position. Mrs. Bell loves Southampton High School and has been trained by the greats like Mrs. Allene Atkinson, Mr. Bill Wright, Dr. Alvera Parrish, Mr. Charles Turner and Mr. Howard Wainwright. I have complete faith that Mrs. Bell will maintain the traditions of Southampton High School while simultaneously leading the Indians to even more excellence. Mrs. Bell brings a plethora of educational experience to the position, and I believe that she will serve the students and the community well.”
When named to the position, Bell said, “I am truly humbled, excited, and honored at being named principal of Southampton High School. I look forward to partnering with students, parents and the community in continuing the excellence of SHS.”
Bell will continue to lead the school with the support of Assistant Principal Derrick Johnson and Dean of Students Chad Brock. The trio, who worked together during the 2018-2019 school year, are excited to begin the new school year and will be welcoming students on the first day of school, Tuesday, Sept. 3.
Bell has a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from Norfolk State University, and a Master of Education degree in administration and supervision from Cambridge College.
ALICE WILLIAMS is a spokeswoman for Southampton County Public Schools.
