Angie Barnes has been selected as the new interim principal at John W. Bate Middle School. Interim Superintendent Elmer Thomas made the selection this week, following the School-Based Decision Making Council’s decision to have an interim principal until a permanent candidate is selected.

Barnes received all three of her degrees, including her education certification, from Eastern Kentucky University and has served in administrative roles as assistant principal at Madison Central High School in Richmond and principal at Silver Creek Elementary School in Berea.

“I’m prepared with the experience I have at the different levels that I’ve worked at, both a larger school and a smaller school, working with kids,” she said. “I think that I have a good rapport with both working with staff and students.”

Barnes’ first day will be Monday, Nov. 22, following Principal Chris Murray’s last day on Friday, Nov. 19.

“I’m excited, for sure, to go into this role and try to support the staff in whatever they need to continue their role in the classroom,” Barnes said. “I think that it’s important to keep open communication with all the stakeholders, continue the mission and vision for the school, and support them through this transition and search for a new principal.”

Later, she said, “With the challenges that teachers have had in the classroom, I have a heart for looking for how to support teachers. Happy teachers make happy kids, so supporting teachers in the things that they need will help them continue their efforts in the classroom.”

Thomas commented on why he selected Barnes for the role, as well as the timeline going forward. He said in her selection process, he sought out names, and Barnes’ experience set her apart.

“I think her experience with working at all levels at successful schools will bode well for Bate,” he said.

The job posting for a permanent principal will likely be at the beginning of March. Thomas said should a new permanent superintendent be hired by then, they will have input in the selection, and the SBDM will decide on a permanent principal by around early April.