Jeffery Blackmon calls his teachers “game changers” because they’re in it to win it.

Blackmon is the new principal at T.J. Harris Upper Elementary School in Meridian after spending some time in the Mississippi Delta.

Originally from Greenwood, Blackmon said he is excited to bring the theme of changing the game to T.J. Harris this year. His staff decided they didn’t want to be called teachers, and even crossed the word off the school’s sign-in sheet.

“We actually have to become game changers at this school because instruction is not enough,” Blackmon said. “We actually have to transform the lives of our students.”

A different path

Blackmon’s path to being a school leader is different from what he originally intended. Planning on a career in law, he majored in political science at Mississippi Valley State University, then earned a master’s in economic public policy at University of Maryland College Park.

But he had trouble finding a job, and when his grandmother became ill, Blackmon decided to return to Mississippi. He took a position as a physical education teacher.

Later, he taught a GED class in the Greenwood Public School District, then  became an assistant principal in Leake County. He’s also worked in districts in Leland, Tunica, Sunflower and Humphreys counties.

While in Leland, Blackmon said the superintendent at the time, Ilean Richards helped him on his journey. 

“She actual helped turn me into the administrator that I am now,” Blackmon said.

Blackmon, who holds a doctorate in education, comes from a family of teachers. His mom, uncle, sister and other relatives have been or are currently teachers. He described family gatherings as very interesting. 

‘I love teaching’

Blackmon said being a principal is not much different than being a teacher,  because he applies what he learned in the classroom to lead the school.

“I loved teaching,” Blackmon said.

Blackmon has several goals, which include helping to transform the culture of T.J. Harris this year and changing the lives of its students. He’s depending on his staff — those game changers — to help him in his mission. 

Duanika Emerson, who teaches third grade, said she knew after speaking to Blackmon for five minutes that he had a passion for helping kids. 

“I never had a principal sit in and plan with us,” Emerson said.

Another faculty member, Marsha Nathan, likes being thought of as a game changer, and said she’s excited for the school year.

Blackmon did not become a lawyer, but in his job as an educator, he sees some similarities. He sees his role as school principal as someone who supports his staff and their young charges. 

“My job is to advocate for my teachers and my students all day long,” Blackmon said.