CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman County School Board at its Nov. 9, 2023, meeting approved Superintendent Dr. Shane Barnette’s recommendation to hire Elizabeth Watwood as the next principal of Hanceville Middle School. Watwood replaces Dr. Kellie Tanner, who was recently named the school improvement/EL coordinator for the district.
Watwood is a Hanceville native and graduate. She is a National Board Certified Educator who taught middle school math at both Hanceville Middle and Hartselle Intermediate before entering administration. Watwood is currently the assistant principal of Hanceville High School, and previously served as assistant principal of Holly Pond K-8. She is a graduate of Wallace State Community College and Athens State University and obtained her Masters and Educational Specialist degrees in administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
“I am so excited and blessed to have the opportunity to serve in this role at Hanceville Middle School,” said Watwood. “I look forward to working with the students, staff and community to make Hanceville Middle the best it can be. Hanceville is my home, and both of my children attend Hanceville schools. I would like to thank Dr. Barnette, (Board Member) Mr. (Kenny) Brockman and the entire board for trusting me with this opportunity.”
“With Dr. Tanner taking a different role in our system, we are very excited to announce Mrs. Elizabeth Watwood as the next principal at Hanceville Middle School,” said Barnette. “Mrs. Watwood is an excellent educator and leader that brings many years of middle school experience to this position. I believe she will lead this wonderful school community for many years to come.”
Watwood will take over as principal on Jan. 2, 2024.
