Dr. Norma Gerrell Named Clarksburg Virtual Academy Principal

CLARKSBURG, Tenn. (June 10) – Dr. Norma Scott Gerrell is Clarksburg Virtual Academy's new principal, the South Carroll Special School District announced Wednesday.

Dr. Gerrell is an accomplished educational leader, consultant, executive coach and university instructor with more than 38 years of experience in public and higher education. Her career includes service as a teacher, principal, district leader, executive director of Northwest CORE, university department chair and director of schools.

Dr. Gerrell retired in 2024 following a six-year tenure as superintendent for the Paris Special School District. Since then, she has served remotely as a leadership coach for Kids 1st Education, a coaching and professional learning organization for school districts and schools. 

Passionate about leadership development and educational excellence, Dr. Gerrell helps educators and organizations build capacity, strengthen culture and improve outcomes for all learners. Her work is guided by a belief that education is the pathway out of poverty and that every person deserves honor, dignity and respect.

Dr. Gerrell is also the president of MORE Ministry, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and its women's initiative — Still Becoming — where she encourages women to discover their purpose, grow in confidence and embrace the life they were created to live. 

Dr. Gerrell will help lead and expand the school's virtual learning programs, which serve students in grades 6–12 across the state of Tennessee. Clarksburg Virtual Academy is a public virtual school that provides high-quality educational opportunities at no cost to enrolled students and families.

"Dr. Gerrell will bring academic expertise and strong leadership skills that will help move Clarksburg Virtual Academy forward and support a culture of continuous growth and achievement," said Dr. Lisa Norris, Director of Schools for South Carroll County Special School District.

Dr. Gerrell resides in Paris, Tenn., with her husband of 38 years, Carlton Gerrell. She treasures her role as a mother to Trey (Emily), an attorney in Memphis, Tenn., and Scott, a board-certified behavior analyst in Jackson, Tenn.

Clarksburg Virtual Academy enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year is now open. Interested families can learn more and enroll by visiting RocketsOnline.org.