Q&A with Meredith Hanson
In May, the Board of Education named Assistant Superintendent Meredith Hanson as the next Pizitz Middle School principal. She took 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.”
Q: What have you learned during your time as assistant superintendent of VHCS?
A: “As the assistant superintendent, I learned that our people (students, parents, faculty and staff) are our most important asset. We are very fortunate to live and work in a community that supports our schools and strives to provide the best educational opportunities possible for the students. Our Board of Education works hard to ensure that our curriculum and facilities are second-to-none. Mrs. Phillips labors tirelessly to coordinate the academics, fine arts and athletic programs that make Vestavia proud.”
Q: What are some of your goals during your time as Pizitz Middle School principal?
A: “Our goals for Pizitz are centered around the students. We will provide the knowledge and tools our students need to succeed in their future endeavors. We will also make sure that our extracurricular activities, whether in arts, music or athletics, complement our academic achievements. Pizitz has an outstanding reputation for student development and I am excited to join the team.”
Q: What do you think sets the Vestavia Hills City School System apart from others in the state?
A: “Community pride, volunteerism and support for Vestavia schools help set us apart from other systems. People here don’t just talk about helping, they roll their sleeves up and work to assist our schools in accomplishing our goals.”
Q: What would you like to say to students and parents as you look ahead to the 2015-16 school year?
A: “Having taught middle school for 13 years, and having coached middle school and high school sports, I know what an important time this is in students’ lives. I would like to say to the parents and students that I hope they are as excited to be here as we are. Welcome to Pizitz; where Pirates lead, others follow.”