When Jason Edwards took the reins as principal of Plain Dealing High School, it felt a little like home for him. The Doyline High School graduate may have spent many years at the Benton High School campus, but he grew up and graduated from a K-12 campus much like Plain Dealing, not too far away in Webster Parish.
“Thrive with Lion Pride,” is his official motto for his new home school and he wears a smile every time he says it.
His vision is to create unparalleled education opportunities in Plain Dealing. And he’s already implementing strategies ahead of the coming school year to get it done. Everything they do will be geared to the student, from academics to athletics.
“I will listen to what they want us to bring,” Edwards said. “I want to make sure every student feels they have something for them.”
And each student, will be known by name and not as a number. That is a true benefit of having a smaller campus in Plain Dealing: an inherent ability to individualize the school experience.
Don’t get him wrong: the education at Plain Dealing High School has been good. The school was rated a “B” school by the Louisiana Department of Education in the spring.
“And people wouldn’t believe the number of certifications our students have earned and the number of dual enrollment classes they have completed. The numbers are great.”
Edwards plans to continue to grow the academic successes at Plain Dealing by increasing AP course opportunities, utilizing distance learning to bring in more course options for students and beautifying the school property to its glory.
Another key aspect of Edwards’ vision for his tenure at Plain Dealing is to make sure the community and the school are intertwined. He plans to accomplish that in many ways, including inviting community members to offer input to their handbook committee and by starting some new traditions in the community that center around school life.
“I am definitely implementing a culture of inclusivity where we include community stakeholders,” he said. “An individual can have a good idea but a team can have a great idea!”
“I truly believe the school can help build the pride in (the town of) Plain Dealing.”
Getting to know the new principal:
What courses have you taught in the past?
I taught mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Statistics, and Trigonometry).
What was your last position before principal?
I was an Assistant Principal at Benton High School.
What extracurricular activities have you led?
I was the National Honor Society sponsor at Benton High.
What was your favorite subject in school?
Mathematics
What’s your favorite memory – thus far – working in Bossier Schools?
My favorite memory is establishing the Bill Moore Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship holds a profound significance as it honors the legacy of an extraordinary educator, mentor, and friend, Bill Moore.
What is your favorite place to eat in Bossier?
Sushi Gen
What’s your favorite part of working and living in Bossier?
Bossier Parish is a warm and welcoming community. I enjoy the variety of activities and events in Bossier Parish. From music festivals to sportsman’s paradise, there is always something fun and engaging to do in Bossier Parish.