School Leaders' Think Tank

A community message from Principal Yeager

Thank You Perry Central & Community

It is with great humility and sincere appreciation that I announce my transition to serve in another capacity closer to my home. While I am filled with anticipation for what lies ahead, I find myself deeply moved by the journey that brought me here—a journey rooted in faith, forged through challenge, and forever marked by the unwavering spirit of Perry County.

From the flatlands and pine to the swamps and running dogs… from fish fries on a Friday night to the amen corners of country churches… from the sound of laughter in hallways to late-night talks with families around kitchen tables—Perry County welcomed me. And not just me—it embraced the mission, the calling, and the belief that we could turn things around. Together, we did more than turn—we soared.

We believed in our students when others doubted. We stood strong when the odds said otherwise. And when the world spoke against us, we boldly replied, “Watch—PC is on The Rise.”

Over these past few years, we’ve rewritten the narrative. More than 70% of our students are now performing at or above proficient levels in multiple subject areas. ACT scores climbed, and our average composite moved to college readiness. Our WorkKeys results ranked among the region’s best. Dual credit participation trippled, and students earned real college credit while still walking our hallways, certifications, and PRIDE. We closed achievement gaps, raised expectations, and proved what’s possible when belief meets effort.

Graduation rates improved dramatically, attendance strengthened, and most importantly—our culture shifted. What was once overlooked became a place of excellence. A school that had often been counted out rose to become a model of possibility and purpose.

We’ve been recognized across the state by the Mississippi Department of Education, PREPS, S-RESA and by national partners like Level All, for our innovation, instructional design, and relentless drive that produced significant gains. Perry Central High School is now not only a place of learning—it’s a recognized leader in educational excellence.

To the community: never let anyone tell you what you cannot do. I’ve seen the fire in our students. I’ve seen the strength of our teachers. I’ve tasted the goodness of your cooking and the goodness of your hearts. And I know this: we are better together! When we unify around purpose, our small-town roots grow trees that bear fruit across the state and beyond.

To the faculty and staff: thank you for holding on when it was hard, leaning in when it was uncomfortable, putting up with out of the box thinking, and showing up every day ready to pour into kids. You are heroes, and you’ve left a mark on my life.

To our students—my scholars—you are everything. You are the reason. You are the heartbeat of this work. I will always cherish the relationships of those of the past, the present, and the future. Never forget what WE accomplished together. You have taught me more than what you may realize. Remember always: You are the best, better than the rest, and you are the mighty, mighty Bulldogs.

To our School Board and Superintendent, Dr. Titus M. Hines: thank you for your trust, support, and shared vision. It was under your leadership that we were able to pursue greatness—and we achieved it together.

This journey just as personal as professional has led me to author my first book, “Leading Where Others Don’t Look,” inspired by the very community that believed, that rose, and that proved what rural resilience and relentless love can do. Regardless of those who doubted us.

Though I may be stepping into a new role, Perry County will always be home to me. The stories, the students, the laughter, the prayers, the people—you are stitched into the fabric of who I am.

So, to the next leader: walk boldly. This is holy ground. This is a place of power, passion, and potential. To the community: keep building. Keep believing. Keep leading… from the front.

And as I’ve always said—

Remember, Scholars, you are the best, better than the rest, you are the mighty, mighty Bulldogs. Have a productive future… on purpose.

God Bless, and Go Dawgs!

— Principal Joshua L. Yeager