HOT SPRINGS -- The principal of Hot Springs World Class High School has resigned after six months.
Tremayne White submitted his resignation to pursue other opportunities that would afford him more time with his family, Superintendent Stephanie Nehus said in an email Tuesday. The resignation was accepted Monday by the Hot Springs School Board. The resignation was effective immediately.
Assistant Principal Kiley Simms will take over White's job in the interim, Nehus said.
"We are working to make this as smooth of a transition as possible for our students and staff members," the superintendent said.
Adriane Barnes, the school's communications and public relations coordinator, said White's resignation was a surprise to the administrative team and it was White's own decision.
"Although it was not an easy decision to make, it is one that I have contemplated for some time now; and I am confident that it was the best decision for me and my family," White said in an email to students that was obtained by The Sentinel-Record.
"This decision allows me to pursue opportunities that will afford me more time to spend with my family," the email said.
Simms accepted the acting position Tuesday. Barnes said the administration team was lucky to have someone like Simms.
"There is not going to be a pause or a discontinuation of learning or growth at the Hot Springs World Class High School," Barnes said. "We are not slowing down. We were surprised, but we are not going to slow down. We are going to keep moving forward."
Simms has spent her entire professional career with the Hot Springs School District, having started there as an English teacher in 2007. She spent nine years teaching English, a year as an instructor facilitator and was in her third year as an assistant principal.
Simms graduated from Magnet Cove High School in 2003. She attended Henderson State University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in English with a minor in Spanish and history in 2006. She also earned a master's in teaching and a master's in education for building administration.
William Brazle was named assistant principal, Barnes said, and the school district will advertise a position for another assistant principal.
Barnes said White brought a wealth of knowledge and experience, noting it was wonderful for the district to have another opinion on the leadership team.
"He was compassionate to our kids," Barnes said. "He was passionate about education, and we appreciate the time that he was here."
NW News on 12/09/2019