It’s time to say farewell to Dr. Akil Ross, after almost eight years as Chapin High School’s principal.  Dr. Ross is replacing Reggie Dean and will become the new Director of Secondary Education. Throughout the years Dr. Ross has helped Chapin become recognized as a South Carolina Palmetto’s Finest Award in 2015 and raised graduation rates at the school to as high as 96 percent in 2016–after challenging teachers to have a 100 percent passing rate. But  one of Dr. Ross’ greatest accomplishments came in October when he was named the 2018 National Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals.

When asked about his main goals he set when he became principal he said “ I always had a vision of 100 percent [of students graduating]. So I tried to maximize potential by creating an environment that wasn’t just about academic but the heartbeat.”  Dr. Ross also said every year he has been principal, Chapin High has won a State Championship (in various sports and school competitions). During his tenure, the school expanded in size with new buildings to the school to accommodate more students, and can list five former District Teachers of the Year.

Dr. Ross described his moving on as “A time for a new leadership” as Chapin moves from a 4A School to a 5A school. “I describe [the new position] as being a coach for other principals so I can show them the things we [Chapin] has done, and spread ideas to other schools,” said Dr.Ross. 

He also said that the new principal will be chosen with the input of the superintendent and faculty at Chapin. Student body President Chase Haywood said, “Dr. Ross is the reason our school has been so successful so it’s going to be hard to see someone we love so much leave. He’s destined for big things through and I can’t want to see him lead the entire district.” 

More information can be found here on the Lexington-Richland 5 School District website.

For other coverage of Dr. Ross, click here for The State Newspaper.