New elementary school principal hired; search continues for high school

In a special session last Saturday, the school board approved the contract for a new elementary school principal.

Board members unanimously accepted the contract for Ann Hilburn as Evergreen Elementary School principal beginning the 2022-23 school year. Hilburn is in her first year as the special education teacher at the high school and middle school, having moved to Wrangell from Mississippi last fall.

Hilburn was part of an applicant pool of more than 30 people, which was narrowed down to eight to 10 applicants. Schools Superintendent Bill Burr said a committee of teachers, staff and community members picked the candidates for interviews.

A candidate had been selected for the high school and middle school principal position, but the application was withdrawn last week. More than 30 people applied for that position as well.

Lead teacher Jenn Miller-Yancey has been serving as assistant principal of Evergreen Elementary School since 2019. The school district decided to return to the more traditional structure of a principal for next year.

Hilburn said she applied because she likes working with staff as well as students.

“I have a passion for helping teachers become the best they can be,” she said. “Even those of us who have served for many years can still improve, make changes for our students’ successes, and find enjoyment in watching them grow.”

Having been a school administrator in Mississippi before coming to Wrangell, Hilburn said if she can help her staff continue to grow, then that will help students to grow. “It’s a wonderful process that I enjoy being part of.”

She also has taught in Texas and Idaho, and in three districts in Alaska: The Lower Yukon School District; then Gustavus, where she also served as principal; and Angoon, where she was superintendent.

Hilburn said before making any changes at Evergreen, she will take the time to get to know the staff and the students, but “changes are inevitable. If we are not moving forward, then we are moving backward. I always want to be moving forward.”

Hilburn’s salary is still being determined by the district. Her contract is for one year and will be paid with federal funds from an American Rescue Plan Act grant.