Alicia Harris Steps into Leadership Role at Valley Jr. High

Alicia Harris has embarked on a new chapter in her professional journey as the assistant principal of Valley Jr. High School for the 2025-26 academic year. With over 20 years of experience in education, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role, having previously served at Lupton Jr. High in various capacities, including teacher and reading interventionist.

Harris’s educational journey began in her hometown, Union Chapel, where she was inspired by her mother, a dedicated educator for 40 years. This familial influence fueled her aspiration to contribute meaningfully to education. “I’ve always had a background in education. I always had a love for it, and she was the reason I never gave up on my dream,” Harris stated, reflecting on her mother’s impact.

She earned her bachelor’s degrees in early childhood education and elementary education from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Furthering her qualifications, she obtained two master’s degrees—one in elementary education from the University of West Alabama and another in instructional leadership from Samford University. Harris also completed an educational specialist degree in instructional leadership, all of which prepared her for her current administrative role.

Transitioning from Lupton Jr. High to Valley Jr. High was a significant step for Harris, who expressed her desire to fulfill her long-held ambition of becoming an administrator. “It’s always been my aspiration to be an administrator. I just haven’t ever put my degree to use,” she explained. The timing felt right, particularly with her daughter now in third grade, prompting her to seek opportunities that would align with her family life.

As she settles into her new position, Harris describes her experience as rewarding yet challenging. “There’s nothing that’s the same every day. There’s a variety of things going on every day,” she noted. The role demands a high level of organization and adaptability, skills she is honing as she meets new students, parents, and staff members.

Harris emphasizes the importance of data analysis in her responsibilities, particularly in preparing students for end-of-year assessments. “We’re trying to get our students prepared for the end of the year and ACAP assessments,” she explained. Her approach involves identifying gaps in students’ knowledge and addressing them proactively. “I look at it like a piece of Swiss cheese. You look at plugging those holes before we’re able to make sure that they’re on grade level. That’s our goal here. We want 100% growth.”

Beyond the administrative tasks, Harris prioritizes building relationships within the school community. Recognizing the changes in leadership at Valley Jr. High in recent years, she aims to establish herself as a reliable and supportive figure. “I just want them to know that I’m someone they can rely on, somebody they can trust, and somebody who is here to help them and support both students and teachers,” she said.

Harris is committed to her role at Valley Jr. High, expressing her intention to remain and grow within the community. “I’m very interested in staying here. I do not want to use this as a stepping stone. I’m devoted to them. Right now, this is my life,” she affirmed. Her enthusiasm and dedication signal a promising future for both her and the students she serves.

Valley Jr. High has welcomed Harris with open arms, and her journey is just beginning. As she continues to navigate her new responsibilities, her focus remains on making a positive impact in the lives of her students and fostering a collaborative environment among educators and families alike.