Columbia, TN (June 10, 2024) — Maury County Public Schools Superintendent Lisa Ventura is excited to announce that Shanda Sparrow-Lang has been named the new principal of Columbia Central High School.

Shanda Sparrow-Lang has distinguished herself as a professional of the greatest dedication, ability, and integrity. Her exemplary leadership has earned her the title of 2023-2024 Maury County Schools Principal of the Year, recognizing the positive influence she has on many young lives. She was previously named the 2018-2019 Principal of the Year, further demonstrating her outstanding leadership and dedication to education.

Shanda holds an associate degree from Walters State Community College, a Bachelor of Science degree from Tennessee State University, and a Master of Education degree in Special Education, along with an educational specialist degree in administrative leadership from Middle Tennessee State University.

Shanda has served as an educator for twenty-three years, including ten years as the principal of Spring Hill Middle School. In her tenure at Spring Hill Middle, the school accomplished the highest rating in areas of academic growth & achievement.  This year the school was designated an “A” by the state of TN. 

Shanda shared, “I'm excited about this new opportunity and very thankful that Ms. Ventura and her staff have instilled their faith and confidence in me to support and lead one of the BEST high schools in America! It has been an honor to serve the students, parents, staffulty, and the community of Spring Hill Middle School for 10 years. I look forward to beginning a new journey with the CHS family. As the Lion family, we will continue to provide students with a learning environment that is safe, engaging, and forward-thinking while utilizing the active support of our teachers, parents, and community. RESTORE THE ROAR! Regardless of WHERE you teach, if HOW you teach doesn't connect to WHO you teach, then WHAT you teach is USELESS."

“Shanda Sparrow-Lang is an inspiration to the faculty, staff, and students of Maury County Public Schools. She illustrates the role of dedicated principal;  she is wholly committed to the highest ideals of public service and quality education for all,” said Superintendent Lisa Ventura. “We are confident that her selection as the principal of Columbia Central High School will bring continued excellence and inspiration to the students and staff.”

Maury County Public Schools commends Shanda Sparrow-Lang for her exceptional service to the children of Tennessee, salutes her professional expertise and personal excellence, and wishes her all the best in her new role at Columbia Central High School.

Contact: Jack Cobb
jcobb@mauryk12.org
9319821388