Dr. Chris Clifford has been named principal of D.S. Parrott Middle School starting July 1, 2021. Currently, Chris is in his 17th year with the school district and his 6th year as assistant principal at Central High School. He is no stranger to D.S. Parrott, having taught there in 2011. Chris is highly regarded for his energy, his ability to use technology in problem-solving and his genuine optimism as he works with colleagues and students.
"Chris is a "make this happen" type of leader. He has made remarkable contributions to improving school culture for the staff and students of Central. His enthusiasm is a perfect match for D.S. Parrott, a school that rallies around student learning while creating deep connections to their community. Chris is a leader who will keep Parrott moving forward," Superintendent John Stratton said.
As assistant principal at Central, Chris' career highlights include developing a system to analyze student formative assessment proficiency, redesigning policy procedures for early detection of students in need, professional development of school staff and educational leaders and creating video learning workshops for teachers to help them prepare for remote learning.
Earlier this year, Chris was nominated as the 2021 Assistant Principal of the Year for Hernando Schools. The nomination came after an extraordinary summer where Chris' leadership was evident beginning with his plan to create a virtual graduation ceremony for each high school when the pandemic forced the cancellation of live ceremonies last year. Using his organizational skills, technological craft and his natural affinity for working with people, Chris completed the project and provided more than 1,500 high school seniors a permanent graduation memory.
Chris follows Ed LaRose, who will leave the middle school to lead the Hornets of Weeki Wachee High.