Laurel Middle School
Dr. Torquato O'Neal
Principal
Laurel Middle School
toneal@laurelschool.org
601-428-5312
Dr. Torquato D. O'Neal began his career in education as an Inclusion Teacher at Sumrall Middle School, where he developed a passion for helping every student reach their full potential. Before entering the public school system, he served in the nonpublic education sector as both a teacher and lead teacher with Millcreek Schools in Magee, Poplarville, and Meadville, Mississippi, as well as CARES School in Hattiesburg, now known as Canopy Children's Solutions.
With 23 years of experience in education, Dr. O'Neal has served in a variety of leadership roles dedicated to student achievement and school improvement. Following his time at Sumrall Middle School, he served as Lead Teacher and Assistant Principal at Dixie Attendance Center, before becoming Principal of Rawl Springs Attendance Center. Most recently, he served as Principal of North Forrest Elementary School in the Forrest County School District. In July 2026, Dr. O'Neal joined the Laurel School District as Principal, where he is excited to serve students, families, faculty, and the community while building upon the district's tradition of excellence.
Dr. O'Neal earned a Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education and Administration from The University of Southern Mississippi, a Master of Science in Education Administration from The University of Scranton, and both his Educational Specialist and Doctor of Education degrees in Educational Leadership from William Carey University.
Dr. O'Neal believes education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and strengthening communities. He is passionate about helping students, educators, and families recognize their potential while creating opportunities for growth, achievement, and lifelong success.
"I love working in education because it creates greater opportunities for children, adults, families, and entire communities, not only through gaining knowledge, but through applying it in meaningful ways. For me, education is the opportunity to help people recognize their potential, apply what they learn, and transform possibilities into progress."
Robert Young
Assistant Principal
ryoung@laurelschools.org
601-428-5312
Robert Young began his career at Millcreek Schools of Magee in Magee, Mississippi. He later transitioned into roles as a Teacher, Inclusion Teacher, Assistant Principal, High School Principal, Alternative School Principal, and Transportation Administrator. In 2024, he joined the Laurel School District and served as the Principal of Laurel high School. He is currently the Assistant Principal at Laurel Middle School.
He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration, a Master's degree in Education, and a Specialist degree in Instructional Leadership. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Leadership.
“I am passionate about working in education because it allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of children. Education, for me, is not just a career but a calling, a ministry that I am grateful to be a part of. I cherish the opportunity to influence and change lives for the better. In my view, education is the foundation upon which all other careers and endeavors are built, making it uniquely impactful and essential to our society's future.”