There will be a new principal at W.O. Parmer Elementary School when classes begin in August, but the new administrator will be a familiar face to students and parents.

On Thursday, the Butler County Board of Education approved the hire of Jacqueline Thornton as the school’s new principal. Thornton, who has served as the school’s assistant principal since 2013, replaces Catherine Tanner, who earlier this summer was named principal at Greenville Middle School.

“I’d like to thank the board for giving me this opportunity,” Thornton said. “I’d like to thank Miss Tanner for preparing me and for her future support. Most of all, I’d like to thank my family — my W.O. Parmer family. The faculty and students opened their doors to me and made me feel at home. I look forward to W.O. Parmer Elementary School building the foundation for students in Greenville, Alabama to be college and career ready.”

Butler County Schools Superintendent Amy Bryan said Thornton is great fit for W.O. Parmer Elementary School.

“Miss Thornton knows the operation of the school, the strengths of each staff member and already has a rapport established with the students and parents,” Bryan said. “She has an entry plan, the enthusiastic backing of the faculty and a strong commitment to supporting all of the programs already successful at W.O. Parmer. I am convinced she will work to ensure academic success for all students in this school.”

In other business:

• The board nominated Dr. Elois Bennett, Yvonne Gulley and Julie Swann for the Board of Equalization.
• The board approved the school system’s membership renewal for the Alabama Association of School Boards and the Legal Assistance Fund. The cost is $8,059 for the Alabama Association of School Boards and $150 for the Legal Assistance Fund.
• The board approved Bryan’s nomination of president Linda Hamilton for All-State School Board Member. The Alabama Association of School Boards’ All-State School Board Member recognition program commends school board members across the state who have exhibited exemplary boardmanship.

The BOE will hold a work session and special called meeting on Aug. 4. The work session will begin at 5 p.m. with the special called meeting set to begin at 6 p.m.