Board names new Pizitz Middle School principal

During a special called meeting, the Board of Education named Assistant Superintendent Meredith Hanson as the next Pizitz Middle School principal. She will take over the position at the end of the 2014-15 school year.

"Her resume, experience and heart made her the best fit for this position," said Superintendent Sheila Phillips. "I think she'll do a phenomenal job."

Hanson was hired as assistant superintendent in July 2014. She was previously executive director of Human Resources at Auburn City Schools from 2012 to 2014. Prior to that position, she served as assistant principal at Vestavia Hills Elementary Central from 2006 to 2012. She holds an Educational Specialist degree from Samford University.

During the meeting, Hanson cited committing to the best instructional practices, pushing curriculum further than it's ever been and encouraging professional development as some of her goals.

"Teaching middle school children is my heart and love," said Hanson. "I want to get know each of them and know what they need."

Effective May 26, current Pizitz Middle School Principal Tyler Burgess will become the Vestavia Hills High School principal.