Former leader to serve as interim Metcalfe Co. Elementary principal

EDMONTON, Ky. – Metcalfe County Schools has named an interim principal for Metcalfe County Elementary School.

Jamie Howard, a name that is familiar to students, teachers and the community, served as principal of Edmonton Elementary for over four years before finishing her career at the district’s central office and retiring in 2022, the district says.

MCS says Howard takes over the role from the inaugural principal of MCES, Michael Gill, who is retiring after 11 years at the helm.

“We certainly appreciate Mr. Gill, who leaves behind a legacy as the first ever principal of the merged Metcalfe County Elementary School,” superintendent Josh Hurt said. “I am thankful to have a professional of Mrs. Howard’s caliber take over the principalship at MCES. She has a true passion for this community and our children, and I know she will work with staff to seamlessly bridge the gap as we begin the process of finding the next full-time principal.”

Howard spent 16 of her 28 years in education at Edmonton Elementary School, where she held the roles of principal, counselor and teacher, district officials say.

Since retiring as the district’s director of instruction, MCS says she has gone on to serve in other educational capacities, including interim guidance counselor at Metcalfe County Middle School.

“Metcalfe County is my home, and the students and staff of Metcalfe County Schools are my family,” Howard said. “I will always do what I can to help move our district forward. I’m honored to have the opportunity to return and help MCES transition into its next chapter. Mr. Gill was a great leader, and I hope to continue building on his successes.”

Howard will be introduced at the next board meeting, scheduled for Oct. 14.

Before the meeting, the public is invited to a retirement reception for Gill, which will begin at 5 p.m. at the central office.