Leland Elementary Accelerated School was renamed in honor of an important figure Thursday.
Edna M. Scott, former principal of the school that now bears her name, was not only a principal but an active and important leader in Leland.
Scott passed away earlier this year, stirring desires among the school board and community members to bestow her the honor, the Rev. Jessie King, superintendent of LPSD, said.
Scott became principal of Dean Elementary, which was later named Leland Elementary when the school integrated.
Deloris Franklin, her former administrative assistant, said she worked with her until they both retired together.
“She helped everyone come together in the transition,” she said. “The students and staff felt comfortable because she made it her business to help everyone adjust to this change.
“We moved into the elementary together and we stayed together until the very end,” Franklin continued. “We were a family because she made not only me feel welcomed and taken care of, but everyone she came in contact with. She went above and beyond to make sure everyone was happy.”
Scott, who taught second grade, earned the Star Teacher of the Year award. She then went on to become assistant principal and principal until she retired in 1990. She obtained her bachelor degree from Alcorn State University, a master’s degree from Indiana University and her specialist in education and administration from Mississippi State University. She was part of several organizations and clubs in Leland. She was active in Habitat for Humanity, Leland Triad, Washington County Alcorn Alumni Association, New Zion MB Church and Washington County Association for Retired Teacher.
“As a lifelong citizen of Leland and a product of the Leland School District, I am extremely happy that Mrs. Scott has been honored in such a magnificent way,” said Lisa Bush, vice-mayor of the City of Leland. “She was my elementary school principal, and as a ‘big talker,’ I had to visit her office quite often as a child. I am honored to say that she impacted my life greatly, and she was very instrumental in helping me to develop into the woman I am today. On behalf of the citizens of Leland, the renaming of the school today only made us even more proud to call Leland home.”
King said he was encouraged by Scott’s legacy.
“As the superintendent of the Leland School District and former student under Principal, Mrs. Edna M. Scott, I am delighted to have the good fortune to serve during this season of dedication and renaming of the Leland Elementary School to the Edna M. Scott Elementary School,” King continued. “I am excited to be a part of this historic event for such a deserving educator who has contributed much to the Leland School District and the Leland community. The Scott family is a pillar of the community.”
Shonda Scott Stamps, daughter of Edna Scott, said she is “so thankful” for the love that was shown towards her mother’s legacy.
“As her child, seeing her hard work and dedication from a different point of view was a sight to see,” said Scott Stamps. “She had a genuine love for her staff and students and citizens of Leland. I didn’t mind sharing my mother because she impacted so many lives.”
