Whitney Glisson was named the new principal at Long Cane Middle School on Thursday night.

Glisson had previously served as assistant principal at Long Cane for two years and had been working as the school system’s secondary curriculum director. 

“I know from being a former principal there are several things you have to have, but the most important thing you have to have is people who are willing to follow you, and that’s what she has,” said Chip Medders, Chief Human Resources Officer. “She is dynamic. You’ve heard her speak, you’ve seen the work she’s done.”

Medders said 19 people applied for the job, with seven of those applicants being internal candidates. TCSS had five finalists, with four of them being assistant principals.

The interview process included allowing students, classified staff, certified staff and parents to participate. Interim Superintendent Roy Nichols and incoming Superintendent Brian Shumate interviewed the two finalists on June 6. 

Former Long Cane Middle Principal Chip Giles is now working as the assistant director of transportation, according to school system documents from the May meeting.