Resurrection Catholic Elementary School (RCES) started off the school year with a new principal.
Nannette Whitehead was appointed to the position in early spring but didn’t assume the role until July 1 after retiring from the Jackson County School District.
She comes to RCES with plenty of experience having previously been principal at St. Martin East Elementary for 9 years and Assistant Principal at D’Iberville Elementary for 7 years.
In addition, she was a Biology and Technology teacher at D’Iberville High School for 15 years before being principal.
Whitehead attended the University of Southern Mississippi where she received a Bachelor of Science in Education, a Masters in Biology, and a Specialist degree in Education Leadership. She is also a National Board-Certified Teacher.
As a teacher, her goal was always to create learning opportunities for all students to achieve success and to help them to develop the skills to be lifelong learners and to help them realize their full potential.
“I loved seeing those lightbulb moments!” Whitehead said.
The most challenging part about teaching was helping students learn to navigate the many distractions that come along with growing up and becoming young adults.
As principal, her number one focus has always been providing a safe environment for the children while helping them to develop an ongoing love for learning and fostering their spiritual growth. And that’s something she will continue to do at RCES.
As for her administrative plans, Whitehead says, “Resurrection has always had a reputation for being a great school. My goal is to continue that tradition and maintain an environment which is conducive to positive staff morale and directed towards student engagement and achievement.”
Whitehead sees her new position as rewarding and fulfilling.
“I grew up in Moss Point and attended St. Joseph Church. Serving as Principal of Resurrection provides me with a great opportunity to grow spiritually and to serve others.”
When she is not working, Whitehead enjoys spending time with family and friends, preferably being outdoors and fishing.
Whitehead has been married to Wayne Whitehead for 22 years and they have two children, Sophie and Easton, who are both currently Education majors at Mississippi State University. She currently attends Sacred Heart Church in D’Iberville.
