Bobby Banks Jr. named assistant principal at Columbus Middle School
Understanding the importance of serving others is one of the characteristics that make up a strong and successful leader. For Bobby Banks Jr., an Alcorn State University alumnus and the new assistant principal at Columbus Middle School, assuring quality services to others while being a lead educator is one of his main priorities.
“I love serving others,” said Banks, who earned a bachelor’s degree from Alcorn State University in 2013. “Being a servant leader and addressing the needs of others is what education is all about.”
Banks officially accepted his latest role with the Columbus Municipal School District in Columbus, Mississippi this summer. Prior to joining Columbus Middle School, Banks taught 6-12 grade music, technology and multiple intervention classes in the Claiborne County School District for six years. While there, Banks developed a school news program called Shark 3 News, which featured students broadcasting morning announcements.
Back in July, Banks earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Mississippi College in Clinton, Mississippi. He is a trainer in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and The Leader in Me programs, which are two programs that help children and adults define their inner selves while encouraging them to strive for greatness.
Students, faculty, staff and the Columbus community have all welcomed Banks with open arms. He’s happy to be surrounded by people who strive to accomplish greatness in the district.
“Columbus Middle School and the community that surrounds it are comprised of so many wonderful people. The students and staff here at the school make me feel like I’ve been here for years. My colleagues have made this transition a smooth one by assisting me and being here every step of the way.”
While gaining experience as a teacher in the Claiborne County School District, Banks fell in love with educational leadership. It didn’t take long for him to realize that he had an even higher calling. His persistence in pursuing a leadership role is what aided his progress.
“My dedication and determination to pursue an administrative position landed me here. It was the first opportunity that I was blessed with while searching for an administrative position. Often, I am reassured that this is the best place for me. The students, teachers and instructional staff works so hard to accomplish both individual and collective achievement.”
Banks’ rise in the educational field wouldn’t be possible had it not been for his tenure with the Claiborne County School District. He credits his hometown school district for providing a base for his career.
“The Claiborne County School District provided a great foundation for me. My students were everything. We built so much together. The love for teaching and learning was displayed in the relationships I had with my students. The teaching staff was supportive and the community was as well. In assessing and reviewing the moments, memories, relationships and excitement for motivating children to be greater than they can even imagine, I know that I couldn’t have made a better choice to start my career.”
In the future, Banks plans to become a head principal and lead a school to success through innovative programs that would encourage high achievements.
