Media Contact
Abi Douglas, Digital Media Specialist
601.545.3002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2025

PETAL, Miss. – The Petal School District (PSD) is pleased to announce that Mrs. Wyn Mims will transition into the role of federal programs and school transition coordinator for the 2025-26 school year. This newly created position will support both Petal Primary School (PPS) and the district, addressing key needs in student transitions and federal education initiatives.

After evaluating district needs and reviewing key data, PSD identified a critical need for additional support in transitioning students from home to Pre-K and Kindergarten. The administrator-to-student ratio at PPS is the highest in the district, with many students adjusting to structured learning environments for the first time. Additionally, the growing demands of federal programs and other initiatives outlined in the district’s strategic plan necessitated additional leadership support.

Mrs. Mims, who has faithfully served as principal of Petal Elementary School (PES) for the past seven years, is no stranger to PPS. Her extensive experience and skill set make her an ideal fit for this role, where she will work closely with Dr. Kelli Brown, assistant superintendent of elementary schools, and Mrs. Branch, PPS principal, to ensure a smooth transition for students and families.

“I am honored to have served PES, but I am equally excited about the opportunity to support our youngest students as they begin their educational journey,” said Mrs. Mims. “Our district believes that family is the most important influence in a child’s development. In my new role, I will assist families in setting a firm foundation as their children enter school for the first time, preparing them for a lifetime of success.”

With Mrs. Mims transitioning into her new role, PSD is also excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Luke Daniels as the new principal of PES.

Dr. Daniels has been a dedicated member of PSD since 2013, serving as a math teacher, Petal+ Lead, administrative intern, and assistant principal at both PES and Petal Upper Elementary School (PUES). Before joining PSD, he taught in the Clinton School District and Pearl Public Schools. He holds a degree in Accounting from Mississippi College, a degree in Educational Leadership from The University of Mississippi, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from William Carey University.

Dr. Daniels is eager for this new opportunity, stating, “It is the privilege of a lifetime to serve PES as principal. I look forward to dreaming alongside the incredible staff and community as we continue building a school that is the pride and joy of each of us—a place where teachers love to teach, students love to learn, and parents can rest easy knowing their children are receiving a world-class education.”

Superintendent Dr. Matt Dillon expressed his enthusiasm for these leadership transitions, stating, “We are excited for Mrs. Mims to step into the role of federal programs and school transition coordinator and for Dr. Luke Daniels to serve as principal of PES. Mrs. Mims’s experience and dedication will further enhance our programs, while Dr. Daniels’s leadership will continue strengthening the learning environment at the elementary level.”

PSD remains committed to continuous improvement, and these leadership adjustments reflect the district’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of students and staff. 

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