Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Al Blanton
Merideth Buzbee Harris has been appointed as the new assistant principal of Sumiton Middle School, marking a significant milestone in her 24-year career in education.
Merideth is well-known for her dedication to student success and her commitment to the community.
Merideth’s journey in education began at a young age. “Ever since I was little, I always wanted to be a teacher,” she recalls. “I had school every day for my stuffed animals!”
Encouraged by her parents to earn a college degree, she chose teaching and never looked back.
“I have been inspired to stay with it because I love helping people succeed, and I feel like in every position I’ve ever had, I’ve been able to help students succeed,” she says.
Her classroom career began in fourth grade at T.S. Boyd School, followed by kindergarten and second grade positions at Sipsey Jr. High and Sumiton Elementary, respectively.
“During my time teaching second grade, I had a few students that I couldn’t quite figure out the best way to help, which led me to learn about dyslexia training,” she says. “That really interested me, so I got my certification as a dyslexia therapist, and since 2021, I have been a dyslexia therapist for the county school system, based first out of Sumiton Elementary and later Sumiton Middle.”
Despite earning her master’s degree in administration in 2008, Merideth remained in the classroom, focused on raising her daughter, Alex, as a single mother. However, moving to Sumiton Middle School reignited her interest in administration.
Working with Principal Chris Stephenson, Merideth was inspired to take on more administrative responsibilities, such as interpreting student data and supporting teachers.
Merideth says she is committed to maintaining a strong connection to the classroom and supporting the entire school community.
“As an administrator, I think it is important never to lose sight of ‘being in the trenches,’ so to speak—the work of being a classroom teacher,” she explains.
Her goal is to foster collaboration among parents, faculty, staff, and students. “We already have great collaboration within the school community, and I look forward to continuing and enhancing that.” WL
