The Kosciusko School Board announced Billy Ellzey as the next superintendent in a release to district staff late last Thursday night. He assumes his new role July 1.
He will replace outgoing Superintendent Gina Smith.
“I’d like to take this time to thank Ms. Smith for her hard work and dedication to the Kosciusko School District,” said Board member Brad Love.
Ellzey comes to Kosciusko following a stint as superintendent of the Forrest County Agricultural High School in Brooklyn, Miss.
Board President Dr. Kenneth Quick said previously that the board had only interviewed one candidate in person based on the committee recommendation.
“He was a strong candidate because he has moved schools from a lower rating to an A rating, and he’s improved graduation rates,” said Quick, who noted that Ellzey had helped raise schools’ ranks as both a principal and as a superintendent.
Love agreed with Quick’s assessment.
“His track record has shown good performance and growth, which is a principle aspect we’re looking for,” said Love.
“He displayed very good interpersonal skills, communication and leadership, which was what I was looking for,” he said.
Ellzey has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Southern Mississippi, master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northwestern State and specialist degree from William Carey.
Prior administrative posts include four years as Principal of Purvis High School and five years as Assistant Principal of South Jones Middle and High School. Before entering administration, he taught chemistry and physics and also coached several sports.
During his time at Purvis, the school accountability rating was raised from a “C” to an “A.”
