Surprising October 2026 Administrator of the Month

(October 15, 2026) – Assistant Principal Ashley Ladner was meeting with her team at West Wortham Elementary & Middle School this morning when some special guests dropped in for a surprise visit.

HCSD Superintendent William Bentz, three HCSD assistant superintendents, and our director of research & development announced that Mrs. Ladner is the district’s October Administrator of the Month! Our education partner, Guild Mortgage Gulf Coast, presented her with a certificate of recognition, a $100 gift card, and a box of Halloween-themed cookies.

Mrs. Ladner is in her 13th year in education and has proudly dedicated her entire career to the Harrison County School District at West Wortham. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of roles, including teacher assistant, general education teacher, special education teacher, and instructional coach. She is currently in her third year serving as West Wortham’s assistant principal.

“Success is built on relationships, and no achievement is ever accomplished alone. I am incredibly thankful for the amazing staff, students, school leadership team, district leadership, and mentors who have supported, encouraged, and shaped me along the way. I am blessed to work alongside people who make a difference every day,” said Mrs.  Ladner.

Congratulations, Mrs. Ladner!