Donaldson named ‘District 8 High School Principal of the Year’ by CLAS
Dr. Kerry Donaldson has led James Clemens High School since 2022
MADISON – CLAS or Council of Leaders of Alabama Schools has selected Dr. Kerry Donaldson Jr. as “District 8 High School Principal of the Year.” Donaldson is Principal of James Clemens High School.
The current-day CLAS organization evolved from a professional association founded in 1969 that focused on children, professional development and school administrators’ needs. CLAS membership is open to individuals who hold or are seeking positions in school administration.
Before working as principal, Donaldson served as Acting Principal after Dr. Brian Clayton resigned to accept the pening for Superintendent of Hartselle City Schools in December 2022.
Donaldson had worked as Administrator for RISE (“Restore, Inspire, Support, Encourage”) Academy, housed at James Clemens.
Before Donaldson worked as an administrator, he began his career at Athens Middle School as a health and physical education teacher. At Athens Middle, he coached basketball for eight years and football for four years. He also functioned as an adjunct instructor for six years at Athens State University.
Originally from Nashville, Tenn., Kerry Donaldson is married to Jacquelynn Donaldson, and they live in Athens. He has been an educator for 19 years.
Donaldson received an associate’s degree at Chattanooga State Technical Community College and a bachelor’s degree in education at Athens State. Donaldson played college basketball at both schools.
At the University of North Alabama, Donaldson earned a master’s degree. Also at UNA, Donaldson completed an education specialist degree. He earned a doctorate’s degree at Samford University. His graduate work involved instructional leadership.
In May, he received a statewide honor with his selection as “Alabama PTA Principal of the Year.” This honor recognizes an outstanding administrator in the state who has made significant contributions to his or her school and community.
Alabama PTA recognizes educators who put forth special effort to collaborate with parents, teachers, other principals and the district’s superintendent. The award recipient has demonstrated exemplary contributions to the profession. (alabamapta. org) Donaldson is the second principal from Madison City Schools that CLAS honored this year as a top regional principal. Jamie Hill, Principal at Discovery Middle School, was recognized by CLAS as “District 8 Middle School Principal of the Year.”
