Wednesday morning saw a flurry of text messages around the city as students and parents shared the news: Dr. Ed Spurka [pictured below] principal at Roswell High School is taking the top job at the new high school and old friend, Jerome Huff, current principal at Elkins Pointe Middle School will be replacing him on July 1.

The timing of this announcement, one week prior to the start of the redistricting meetings, could not have been better. There were already rumors flying about Spurka's departure and this news puts an end to the speculation. And naming Huff, who has an outstanding reputation in the Roswell community, to be the next leader at RHS, should inspire confidence in the parents that no matter what may happen with the attendance zones, Roswell High will be in good hands. Over the years, I have heard many good things about Spurka -- every parent has had something positive to say about their experience with him. Not only is he extraordinarily dedicated -- you'll find him at the school any time there are kids on campus -- but he also imbues in the students a sense that they are a part of something bigger than themselves. He takes the time to help them understand how what they do impacts others in the school and the community at large. Recently, a parent told me that Spurka is even a good role model for them on how to be better parents by being involved with the kids and the school.

And then there are the numbers . . . Under Spurka's supervision, RHS has made dramatic strides in academics and in sports. Last February, The Beacon reported that Kathy Cox, former Georgia School Superintendent recognized Roswell High School as one of the top schools in the state for the number of students taking and passing Advanced Placement exams. And the rest of the story is that the students succeeding are not just the ones from affluent families. Roswell High's diversity reflects the diversity of the community in socioeconomics and in race, and their success transcends what are seen as barriers at other schools.

And of course, who can forget the 2006 state championship football game where Roswell took home their first championship trophy in 36 years.

HUFF IS NO PUFF

And just who is Jerome Huff ? Although he was an assistant principal at Roswell High and is now the principal at Elkins Pointe Middle School, it's his seven years as principal at Roswell North Elementary where he really made a name for himself.

While at Roswell North, Huff [pictured] developed a dynamic and spirited team of teachers, staff, parents, students, and area business leaders who worked tirelessly to bring the school to the top of its game. In 2005, RNE received the coveted Platinum Award from the Governor's Office for Student Achievement for Greatest Gain on the CRCTs and they haven't looked back. Unleashing the power of the teachers to teach and the students to learn, RNE has made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) every single year.

His open and engaging personality ignited a firestorm of sorts in the parent community -- inspiring a record number of volunteers and volunteer hours focused on improving the experience of all the students in the school. During his tenure, he started the "Dad's Club" in order to create an opportunity for men, but also to give students male role models for success. With his trademark no-nonsense yet nurturing way, he encouraged parents and community members to become tutors and mentors for at-risk kids.

Huff encouraged active parents to start the first Education Foundation for a Roswell public school. During tough economic times, this organization has raised over $170,000 in just 18 months! The Roswell North Elementary Education Foundation equipped every classroom with an active board, and with the special help of local businessman, Dr. Bob Licata, opened and staffed a state-of-the-art Science Lab.

Huff's support of teachers is legendary and was a key factor in his recognition by the Georgia PTA in 2009 as 2nd runner-up for Principal Of The Year. The teachers appreciate Hufff's leadership style and the leeway he gives them to manage their classroom as they feel best utilizes their skills. In his nomination, a teacher was quoted as saying "Mr. Huff creates a special workplace where the teachers are made to feel appreciated and respected". 

It's not just the words he says, it's his actions that speak volumes. Every day you could hear him exclaim, "I love this school!" And now Roswell High will have the opportunity to earn that same place in his heart.

Share your thoughts with me at nan@beaconcast.com.