Above (from left): Brad McGhee, Kayla Turner
Southside School District has announced several administrative changes set to take effect at the start of the 2025-26 academic year.
Kayla Turner has been appointed curriculum director for the district. Turner has worked in education for 15 years, including six years as a fifth-grade literacy teacher, two years as an instructional facilitator, and the past seven years as principal of Southside Middle School (SMS).
She holds a bachelor’s degree in middle-level education, a master’s in curriculum and instruction, and a certificate in building-level administration. Turner is also a National Board Certified Teacher and a member of the Arkansas Association of Middle-Level Administrators.
In her new role, Turner will oversee districtwide curriculum planning and instructional support.
“I am excited to begin this new role and continue working alongside the amazing administrators and educators at Southside, while keeping student needs at the forefront of our work,” said Turner. “While I am sad to leave Southside Middle School, I know it will be left in good hands. I won’t be far, and will continue working with the SMS staff in a different capacity.”
Turner lives in Southside with her husband of 15 years, Landon Turner. They have two children, Harrison and Henry.
Brad McGhee, currently assistant principal at Southside Middle School, will succeed Turner as principal. McGhee has 28 years of experience in education, 18 of those at Southside. His background includes roles as a high school assistant principal, athletic director and boys basketball coach.
McGhee earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Lyon College and a master’s in educational administration from Arkansas State University. McGhee is married to Lisa McGhee, director of Southside Preschool. Together they have two children, Kailee and Carson, and a grandson, Lucas.
“I have enjoyed my time at the middle school as the assistant principal, but look forward to my new role,” McGhee said. “We have a great group of students and staff members that I get to work with on a daily basis.”
Additionally, Novella Humphrey will depart the district to join the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce. Superintendent Dion Stevens thanked Humphrey for her contributions and expressed confidence in the district’s new leadership.
“We are excited to welcome Mrs. Turner and Mr. McGhee into their new roles,” Stevens said. “Their dedication to our students will continue to have a meaningful impact. We’re also grateful for Mrs. Humphrey’s years of service and wish her the very best as she begins this exciting new chapter.”
The leadership changes will take effect at the beginning of the next school year.
Images provided by Southside School District
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