Laurel High School Administration

Crystal Tucker
Assistant Principal
crtucker@laurelschools.org
601-649-4145 ext. 4003

Crystal Tucker began her journey in education as a day tutor and assistant teacher at Oak Park Elementary. She quickly became a practitioner in college and career readiness, safety education, and physical education. She has previously performed the duties of a head coach in two sports for six years. Throughout her practitioner journey, she was recognized as the 2020 Teacher of the Year by the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Pine Belt of the Mississippi Committee.

Tucker received her bachelor’s degree in health, physical education, and recreation, a master’s degree in education, and her specialist degree in educational leadership from William Carey University.

Each day, I am given the opportunity to inspire, change mindsets, increase support, and empower individuals that are eager for success. Our students will not be in mental stagnation but will have continual momentum. As B. Knight states, “The key is not the will to win, everybody has that, it is the will to prepare to win that is important”. Greatness will be achieved through a strategic collaboration of the school organization and the community.

Rachel Virgess
Assistant Principal
rvirgess@laurelschools.org
601-649-4145 ext. 4002

Rachel Virgess began her career in education as a 4th grade ELA/Social Studies teacher at Byhalia Elementary School in the Marshall County School District. Prior to joining the Laurel School District in August of 2008, she served as an 8th grade Reading teacher at also at Byhalia Middle School. Here in Laurel, she has held the following positions: 7th grade ELA/Social Studies Teacher, 8th grade ELA Teacher, Lead Teacher, and ELA Department Chairperson. She is currently the Assistant Principal at Laurel High School.

She received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Mississippi State University, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Mississippi, Educational Specialists in Reading Instruction from The University of Southern Mississippi, and Educational Specialists in Educational Leadership from William Carey University.

"I love having the opportunity to make a difference (no matter how small) in the lives of students. It is my goal to ensure that ALL students succeed and excel and that teachers are provided with the proper support to positively impact our future."