The Rockwood Board of Education has approved the hiring of MHS’ Head Principal Dr. Stephen Hankins as the assistant superintendent of student services, beginning July 1. Dr. Hankins is replacing Terry Harris, the former executive director of student services, who resigned in January. 

This new role encompasses various jobs such as dealing with residency, nursing, guidance and even social work. The main goal is to provide the services that students need to succeed. 

“I have always loved being the principal of MHS, but this is also an opportunity to impact the district hopefully in a more wider and positive scope,” Dr. Hankins said. “I like to serve and help people which is why I took this opportunity.”

This is Dr. Hankins’ fourth year as the head principal. Previously, he was associate principal for four years, served six years as an assistant principal and even taught here as a social studies teacher for 10 years before that. 

He said his time at MHS has been an unbelievable experience that has caused him to grow as a leader. 

“I’ve learned how to deal with very stressful situations at times by being able to get through that with a staff and incredible students,” Dr. Hankins said.  “This really has been home for me for so many years. It’s hard to leave this school to an extent, but I’m still around, so they’re not gonna get rid of me altogether.” 

Anya Moola, junior, echoed that Dr. Hankins has led the school to many difficult situations including the COVID shutdown, virtual learning and the loss of students and a principal last school year.

“Dr. Hankins provided support through times of loss,” Moola said. “I think he has made a huge impact and the school will not be the same with him gone.”

Even though not every student can personally talk to Dr. Hankins on a regular basis, as Moola said, everyone still feels his presence. 

Senior Principal Dr. Rick Regina has worked closely with Dr. Hankins since the 2000s. 

“It’s been great working with Dr. Hankins. His door is always open. Anytime I have a question, he’s responsive and very collaborative,” Dr. Regina said. “He’s a great leader, a good teammate, and I know I can always go to him anytime I have advice.”

Dr. Regina and Dr. Hankins has worked side by side Dr. Hankins for the past few years

“So that part makes me a little sad that I won’t see him every day, but I’m happy for him and I know that he’s only a phone call away,” Dr. Regina said. 

Dr. Hankins would like the MHS community to focus on the good ahead.

“There’s always gonna be hard times, there are always gonna be setbacks. If that’s where your focus is, you’ll never move forward,” Dr. Hankins said. “This staff, this community, these parents, these students, they’re resilient. So just keep your focus on what’s ahead and know that you can get through anything.”