Cawood Elementary School will have a new principal for the 2026-2027 school year.
Following a meeting with the school’s site base decision-making council on Friday, April 24, 2026, Superintendent Brett Johnson announced that Jeff Ramsey, a 31-year veteran in education, will assume the duties on July 1.
Ramsey will replace Melinda Sergent who has served as the school’s principal for 13 years and compiled a 32-year career in the district.
“Cawood Elementary represents excellence, and Jeff Ramsey is the right leader to carry that tradition forward. His commitment to students and proven leadership make him an outstanding choice for principal,” said Johnson.
“He brings vision, experience, and a deep commitment to student success, and I’m excited to see the momentum he will build beginning July 1,” said Johnson. “He already has an excellent relationship with students, parents, community and staff.”
Sergent stated, “As I prepare to retire, I am proud to share that our assistant principal, Mr. Ramsey will be stepping into the role of principal. This transition brings me great confidence, as he has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, dedication to our students, and a deep commitment to supporting our staff. I have no doubt the school will continue to thrive under his guidance. It has been an honor to serve Cawood Elementary and this community, and I am grateful to leave the school in such capable hands.”
Ramsey, after learning of the decision, said, “I would like to thank Superintendent Johnson and the Cawood Elementary site base members for allowing me the opportunity to lead this extraordinary school. Over my 31 years of experience in the Harlan County School District, I have been blessed to serve most of that time at Cawood Elementary; first as a teacher/bus driver, then as the assistant principal, and now stepping into the role of principal. Not only is this experience humbling, but it is incredibly heartfelt.”
He added that, “My love for this school and my connections to it run deep. This school is more than just a place of learning to me—it is home. Beyond my own experiences here as both a former student and as an educator, many members of my family have also dedicated their time and talents to the success of this school. That makes this whole experience not only more personal to me, but also incredibly meaningful.”
Ramsey is a 1990 graduate of James A. Cawood High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Lincoln Memorial University and a master’s degree and Rank 1 at Union College. He has served in various roles, including; teacher, bus driver, consultant, technology coordinator, and assistant principal.
He and his wife Sheba, a retired teacher from Harlan County, have several children; April Jump, Wesley Colinger, William Colinger, Jeffery (J.J.) Ramsey, and five grandchildren.
Ramsey noted “Cawood Elementary has always held a special place in my heart. I am extremely proud of this school — its rich history, its dedicated staff, its supportive families, and most importantly, its outstanding students. The accomplishments of Cawood Elementary are a testament to the hard work and commitment of this entire community. “
He said as principal, “I am fully committed to building on that strong foundation. My focus will always be on putting students first, fostering a safe and supportive learning environment, and striving for excellence in all that we do.”