Homewood City Schools has promoted Mindy McBride to principal of Homewood Middle School and Rick Baguley to athletic director of Homewood High.
McBride begins her new job July 1. For the past five years, McBride has served as an assistant principal for instruction in the Homewood school system, the past three of those years at Homewood High. Before that, she taught and coached at Homewood High, including teaching science, social studies and advanced placement courses and leading the girls varsity soccer team to a state championship.
She has been named the school’s Teacher Impact winner as well as having been a top-four finalist for the U.S. Youth Soccer National Coach of the Year and Alabama Soccer Association’s Girls Competitive State Soccer Coach of the Year.
“It is clear that Mrs. McBride loves our students, staff, and this community,” school Superintendent Justin Hefner said in a statement from the system. “Her strong leadership combined with her passion for empowering students will serve Homewood Middle School well.”
She succeeds Danny Steele, who is retiring as the middle school’s principal.
“Homewood is an integral part of my life and holds a special place in my heart,” she said in the statement. “This is where I started my career and raised my family, and I feel extremely fortunate to be a part of this wonderful community. I am so excited to work alongside the amazing teachers, staff, and families of HMS to support, empower, and cheer on our students together.”
Baguley was named athletic director after more than 20 years at the high school, where he has been a teacher, coach and assistant athletic director. He has coached boys basketball, golf and football, as well as boys and girls track.
During his time as assistant athletic director, Baguley has spearheaded initiatives such as Patriot Peer Connections, alongside tutoring coordinator Carol Chesnutt. He has orchestrated National Signing Days for athletes and families and led students producing content seen on the video board during football and soccer games at Waldrop Stadium.
“His passion for sports, education, and community engagement will be the driving force behind his efforts to empower our student-athletes to excel both on and off the field,” said HHS Principal Joel Henneke.
Baguley begins his new job June 1, succeeding Doug Gann, who is retiring after 33 years in education.
“I have always been proud to be from Homewood,” Baguley said in the statement. “As a Homewood alumnus and former athlete, it is a true honor to work with our coaches, students, and community. I am so excited to serve our community in a new capacity.”
