Leadership Support Team

Mark Beechem

Principal

Principal Mark Beechem originally hails from Grenada, MS. HIs degrees include a BS in Elementary Education and an MS in Secondary Education, and his professional experience encompasses 28 years in education, including 14 years as a principal. Outside of school, you’ll find him spending time with family and friends. His outlook aligns with the personalized learning approach: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can” by Arthur Ashe.

JESSIE WALKER

Dean of Operations & Scholars

Jessie Walker is a lifelong resident of Greenwood, MS. His degrees include a Bachelor of Elementary Education from the University of Mississippi, and a Master of Elementary Education from Walden University. As a career educator, he has served as an Inclusion Teacher at both the elementary and middle school levels. His personal interests are fishing, traveling, and playing and coaching basketball. He believes in this credo: “Never judge a book by its cover—read it first.”

linkedin.com/in/jessie-walker-14754521a/

Coretta Vance-Green

College & Career Counselor

Coretta Vance-Green was born and raised in Greenwood and Carroll County, MS. She holds a BS in Family & Consumer Sciences and an MS in Agriculture Education. For the past 24 years, she has served in teaching and education administration roles in the Mississippi Delta. Her interests include singing, walking, and spending time with family. Her personal credo is: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

linkedin.com/in/coretta-green-35b49377

MARKITA SMITH

Scholar Support Coordinator

Markita Smith is a lifelong resident of Greenwood, MS. As part of her professional development, she has earned both a Bachelor and Master of Social Work, as well as certification in Mental Health First Aid. For five years she’s served in the mental health field helping children and adults set and accomplish their goals. In her down time, she enjoys spending time with her children and being a confidante for friends and family. Her motto: “You are the author, illustrator, and publisher of your life story, so make it a bestseller!”

linkedin.com/in/markita-smith-77bb91215

Synthia Hoover-Smith

Community & Family Engagement Coordinator

Synthia Hoover, of Greenwood, MS, holds a Bachelor of Business Administration. She has more than a decade of experience working directly with children. She has served the community via organizations such as East Elementary School, The Museum of the Mississippi Delta, and The Boys & Girls Club of the Mississippi Delta. Her favorite quotation is from William Shakespeare: “Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.”