WABASH, IN- On Tuesday evening, the MSD of Wabash County School Board approved the hiring of Mrs. Amber Lewis as the new Principal of Southwood Jr./Sr. High School. The former Southwood Principal, Mr. Andrew McDaniel, was recently named the new Director of Finance for Fairfield Community Schools.
As a Southwood alum herself, the southern Wabash County community has long been a part of Mrs. Lewis’ life. After graduating from Southwood in 2003, Mrs. Lewis received a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry from Huntington University. She then furthered her education at George Washington University in Washington D.C., where she received a Master’s in Forensic Sciences. Her career began with experiences as a Crime Scene Specialist for the Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency and then a Special Agent in the United States Secret Service.
Eventually, she found a passion for education, earning her teaching degree from Indiana Wesleyan University, along with her Administrative License. She also achieved her Education Specialist degree from the American College of Education. She taught science at the middle school, high school, and collegiate levels. In 2020, Mrs. Lewis transitioned into school administration through assistant principal and principal roles for online-based programs.
“Throughout my professional career, I have had unique opportunities to travel, work, and reside far from Wabash County. These experiences deepened my belief that Southwood and MSD of Wabash County provide the values and environment I want my children to experience and that I am proud to be a part of once again,” stated Mrs. Lewis. “I am excited to begin working with staff, students, families, and our community to continue cultivating and strengthening the great work already being done at SHS.”
Mrs. Lewis and her husband, Brandon, reside in LaFontaine with their three sons, Elijah, Micah, and Noah. Mrs. Lewis enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, baking, running, staying active, caring for animals, and being outdoors.
Mrs. Lewis will commence the principal role this summer, while Interim Principal and Chief Academic Officer Tim Drake oversees the conclusion of the Southwood school year.
