In his ninth year as assistant principal at Bryant Alternative High School, Virginia native Larry Jones will succeed Jan McKee in the principal's post as of Jan. 3.

Prior to his promotion in 2001, Jones was a teacher at Bryant for six years. He has also been a summer school principal at Lake Braddock and Robert Frost Middle Schools, as well as a teacher at King George and Petersburg Highs, racking up more than 20 years of experience as an educator.

Though Jones expressed sadness at McKee's announcement of retirement, he was excited at the chance to take the reins and continue down the path McKee has set.

"I will continue to utilize many of the strategies we as an administrative team have collaborated on to help our students be successful in the school and in the community," Jones said.

He also said that despite the wonderful record McKee has established, change would need to continue on.

"I do believe to make Bryant an even better school, change must take place," Jones said. "Any change would embrace Bryant's vision to continue to improve student achievement."

McKee is very pleased about her successor and is positive that Jones is beyond qualified.

"About 35 people applied for and were interviewed for the position," McKee said. "The panel [of teachers, staff and parents] clearly saw what he has to offer; as did the assistant superintendent of the schools and the superintendent, who also interviewed him." 

"He knows the culture and the community here, and I know he's going to make some changes," McKee said "But that's what he's here for, and he really knows our students and staff. I'm sure the transition will be smooth."

With McKee's retirement rapidly approaching, Jones has only a week before assuming his new role. Fortunately, his tenure at Bryant will ease the transition—a point of view confirmed by McKee as a very large asset to the school.

Despite the short time he has to prepare, Jones said he was extremely excited. "I look forward to conquering my new life milestone on Jan. 3," he said.