Tiffany Davis will take the reins at John Essex High School Thursday, becoming the third principal the school has seen in as many years.

Davis, whose hire was approved by the Marengo County Board of Education Thursday, June 23, accepts the post after five years with the Alabama Reading Initiative.

“I worked for the Alabama Reading Initiative for the State Department of Education,” the 33-year-old Davis said. “We supported the principals and teachers with reading achievements in the schools.”

Her role with the Alabama Reading Initiative put Davis, a Greensboro native, in working relationships with principals and teachers across west Alabama. It is her experience in fostering relationships intended to function toward a common goal that she believes may help her most in her new tasks at John Essex.

“I would just say being new and ensuring that everyone has that same goal and that same vision,” she said of the toughest task that faces her once she takes her new post Thursday. “That is basically my goal; to continue that mission to make sure all students have a chance at a quality education and can become productive citizens. I definitely believe that with all the support and with all the key players coming to the table, we are set for success.”

Davis said her early tasks will also include interfacing with parents and other members of the community as she works to implement a shared vision and set up an action plan for John Essex and its future.

“I can’t wait to actually get on board and see where our community is,” Davis said before pointing to personality traits she believes will be conducive to bringing about a united approach for Essex. “I am a God-fearing woman. I know that through prayer and putting my savior first, that only opens the door for success. I value input. I am a servant leader. I believe leaders grow leaders. I do want the parents and the community and the family of John Essex to know they are welcome. We cannot do anything without their input and support.”

Davis obtained her undergraduate and masters degrees from the University of West Alabama before spending five years as a teacher in Troy.