Principal

Michaela Barnes

Michaela Barnes was appointed the principal of Bates Elementary School at the start of the 2025-2026 school year. A highly respected and accomplished educator, Mrs. Barnes brings over a decade of teaching and leadership experience to her new role, along with a deep commitment to student achievement, literacy development, and instructional excellence.

Mrs. Barnes served as Assistant Principal at Spann Elementary School, where she supported academic and operational leadership. Prior to this, she served as a Curriculum Lead Specialist for English Language Arts in Jackson Public Schools, providing district-wide instructional support, coaching, and professional development for teachers in grades 3-5.

Her connection to Bates Elementary is personal and professional. She previously served as a classroom teacher and team leader at the school from 2014 to 2018. During that time, she was a certified Kindergarten and third-grade teacher and played a key role in fostering collaboration and academic growth among students and staff.

Mrs. Barnes’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. She has earned numerous recognitions, including Teacher of the Year (2020–2021), Outstanding Leader Award, Parent’s Choice Award, and ELA Teacher of the Year. These honors reflect her excellence in instructional practice, parent engagement, and school-wide leadership.

She holds multiple degrees from Mississippi College, including a Master’s, Specialist, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership (expected 2025). She is certified in elementary education, reading (K–12), history (7–12), and educational leadership (K–12).

With her strong instructional background, proven leadership, and passion for student success, Mrs. Barnes is exceptionally well-prepared to lead Bates Elementary School into a new era of growth and excellence.