BY MILES LAYTON
COLUMBIA — The Tyrrell County Board of Education has announced the appointment of Brianna Williams as Interim Superintendent, bringing a familiar face and seasoned leadership to guide the district through its next chapter.
A native of Hyde County, Williams has spent more than 20 years serving students in rural communities, building a reputation as a strong advocate for educational excellence and equity. The Board praised her dedication, experience, and passion for helping every student succeed.
“Her leadership and vision will be instrumental as we continue our mission to prepare all students for meaningful lives—whether through college, career, military service, or personal goals,” the Board said in its announcement.
As Interim Superintendent, Williams will oversee district operations while leading initiatives to improve student achievement, strengthen community partnerships, and maintain high academic standards. She will also work closely with the Board to ensure Tyrrell County Schools continues to meet state and federal accountability goals.
Williams steps into the role after serving since July as Tyrrell County Schools’ Director of Curriculum & Instruction, Testing & Accountability, and Innovative Programs. Prior to that, she was principal of Columbia Early College High School from January 2023 to August 2025, where she championed dual-enrollment opportunities and expanded college readiness initiatives for students.
Her career includes leadership roles in Beaufort County Schools, where she served as assistant principal and later principal at Chocowinity Middle School from 2016 to 2022. She also held administrative positions at Washington High School and P.S. Jones Middle School. From 2004 to 2015, Williams taught high school science at D.H. Conley High School and Wake Forest High School.
The Board cited her wide-ranging experience—from middle and high school leadership to district-level curriculum oversight—as a key factor in her selection.
“She brings with her a wealth of knowledge, a deep commitment to educational excellence, and a passion for helping every student succeed,” the Board said in a statement.
When Williams was named Principal of Columbia High School in 2023, she said, “When students leave our schools, we want them prepared with the tools, academic background, and communication skills to be successful in college, the military, or the workforce. I look forward to working with our teachers, families, and the community to ensure every student feels valued, supported, and ready for the future.”
Williams began her education career after earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Mount Olive in 2002. She went on to receive a Master of Arts in Teaching from East Carolina University in 2004 and later a Master of School Administration from ECU in 2015.
Hyde County folks — Mattamuskeet Early College High School (A great place to work) — Class of 2002!
One response to “Williams Named Interim Superintendent for Tyrrell County Schools”
[…] Speaking of Hyde County’s best and brightest, Brianna Williams was named as the Interim Superintendent of Tyrrell County Schools. Williams is an alumnus of Mattamuskeet Early College High School — Class of 2002! See our story – click the link. […]