Jul 26

Jul 26 Smallwood, White leaving Jones County Schools for Bertie County

By Junious Smith III

TRENTON — A pair of pillars in the Jones County school system will be heading to Bertie County.

Dr. Otis Smallwood and Mike White are heading into new positions after 11 years in Jones County. Smallwood spent five years as an executive director before transitioning to his position as assistant superintendent in Jones County, while White served as an assistant principal at Jones Senior in 2008 before taking over as principal in 2009 at Jones Middle School. Five years later, White became principal at Jones Senior.

Smallwood was named Bertie County Schools superintendent in mid-June. While he’s thankful for the opportunity, he said he’ll miss Jones County.

“I’m from Bertie County, but I’ve looked at Jones County as a second home,” Smallwood said. “It’s very bittersweet because I’ve created so many relationships — not just school-wise, but in the community. The residents treated me like family, and there are similar demographics and population in Jones County as it is in Bertie.”

Soon after getting the job as superintendent, Smallwood asked White to join his staff as the executive director of human resources and auxiliary services.

“Part of the role of the superintendent is to build a team with people you trust,” Smallwood said. “I’ve worked with (White) for 11 years and know his leadership qualities. His love for children is a perfect fit in this role as we work toward a positive outcome with the teachers and staff.”

For White, Bertie County is also home for him. However, it was tough to move back.

“It’s a step up in my field, and a chance to go home and be closer to my parents, but this was not an easy decision,” White said. “Dr. Smallwood asked me about the position and when someone believes in you as much as he does, it’s hard not to accept the position. I’ve been thankful for the community here in Jones County — it’s a great place to grow, learn and teach.

“It was a great experience for me and have nothing negative to say.”