COLUMBIA — The Tyrrell County Board of Education has officially named Brianna S. Williams, who has Hyde County ties, as the new Superintendent of Tyrrell County Schools, bringing more than two decades of educational experience and local leadership to the district’s top position.
The announcement, made Thursday, follows Williams’ service as interim superintendent since August. A familiar face across the district, she has held several key roles within Tyrrell County Schools, including Principal of Columbia Early College High School and Director of Curriculum & Instruction, Testing & Accountability, and Innovative Programs.
Williams’ appointment follows a period of transition for Tyrrell County Schools as it continues efforts to boost student performance and strengthen community partnerships. During her time as interim superintendent, she maintained district stability and guided academic planning across all grade levels.
The Board expressed optimism for the district’s future under her leadership.
“We are excited for the future of Tyrrell County Schools under her leadership,” the Board said in a joint statement.
A Leader with Deep Local Roots
Hyde County ties — Mattamuskeet Early College High School Class of 2002, Williams brings more than 22 years of experience in public education, having served as a teacher, coach, principal, and district administrator. Her upbringing and career in eastern North Carolina have shaped her belief in the importance of providing strong academic opportunities for students in rural communities.
As superintendent, Williams will oversee district operations while advancing goals centered on student achievement, instructional excellence, and community engagement. She will also work closely with the Board to ensure Tyrrell County Schools continues to meet state and federal accountability measures.
“I am sincerely appreciative of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead Tyrrell County Schools. I look forward to raising the bar for student achievement and ensuring instructional excellence in every classroom,” Williams said.
From the Classroom to the Superintendent’s Office
Williams began her career teaching high school science at D.H. Conley High School and Wake Forest High School from 2004 to 2015. She transitioned into school leadership in Beaufort County Schools, serving as assistant principal and later principal of Chocowinity Middle School between 2016 and 2022. She also held leadership roles at Washington High School and P.S. Jones Middle School, where she focused on academic improvement and student engagement.
In January 2023, Williams joined Tyrrell County Schools as principal of Columbia Early College High School, where she championed dual-enrollment programs and college readiness initiatives. When she stepped into the role of Director of Curriculum and Instruction, she oversaw district-wide efforts to align curriculum, testing, and accountability with state standards.
“When students leave our schools,” she said upon becoming principal, “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 and ready for the future.”
Williams earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Mount Olive in 2002, followed by a Master of Arts in Teaching from East Carolina University in 2004. She later returned to ECU to complete her Master of School Administration in 2015.
Her academic background, combined with her extensive classroom and administrative experience, has helped shape a leadership style grounded in data-driven decision-making and a deep belief in the potential of every student.