Video: Fennell Leaving Starkville High

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STARKVILLE, Miss. — SHS Principal Keith Fennell has resigned from his position to pursue an opportunity at Jackson State University as Director of Student Academic Services. Fennell’s last day at SHS will be February 28.

SSD Superintendent Lewis Holloway plans to recommend an interim principal to serve for the remainder of the school year to the Starkville School District Board of Trustees at the next regular board meeting which has been rescheduled for February 18 due to winter weather conditions.

“While the timing of Fennell’s resignation isn’t ideal, the District understands his desire to pursue a new opportunity in higher education,” Holloway said. “We are confident that we can make an administrative adjustment for the remainder of the year that maximizes the strengths of SSD’s administrative team,” Holloway added.

SSD will begin the search process for hiring a new principal to lead SHS immediately.

Fennell was hired in 2009 as principal at SHS. Fennell is credited with fostering an environment of school spirit and pride among students, faculty and the Starkville community, and he never hesitated to organize efforts to support the Yellow Jacket family and friends. Fennell was also instrumental in creating SHS’s broadcast program, which earned him Administrator of the Year honors from the Mississippi Scholastic Press Association in 2012.

“I will always have fond memories of Starkville High School and the wonderful people of this great community,” Fennell said. “The black and yellow will forever be a part of my extended family, and I am eternally grateful for the experience to serve as principal of SHS.”

“We appreciate Fennell’s leadership at SHS during the past 5 years, and we wish him continued success at JSU,” Holloway said.