AHOSKIE – Jerry Simmons, the former principal of Rich Square-Creecy Elementary School and Conway Middle School, has been tabbed as the successor to Larry Cooper as principal of Hertford County High School.

Simmons, currently a member of the Weldon City School Board, is slated to take over in that capacity when he is finished negotiating contract issues in Northampton County.

Simmons, who has no prior experience as a high school principal, will also be required to attend training in a school executive program.

A graduate of Winston Salem State University who holds a bachelor’s degree in history, Simmons has also held the position of Transportation Director and Title I coordinator of Math and Reading in Northampton County.

Simmons, who resides in Weldon with his wife and two children, says his experiences in various aspects of school administration will benefit his transition to the high school arena.

&uot;I’ve had to navigate some troubled waters during my previous employment experiences,&uot; Simmons said in a telephone interview from his home. &uot;I’m comfortable; I look forward to the challenge and anyone that knows me will tell you that children always come first with me.&uot;

Simmons said that he hopes to create a climate of excellence.

&uot;I have no agenda and this effort will not succeed overnight,&uot; Simmons stated. &uot;But now is not the time for excuses, it is time for accountability.&uot;