Moss Point School District names Dr. Michael Battle as superintendent
MOSS POINT, Mississippi — The Moss Point School District Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Michael Battle to serve as the district’s next superintendent.
Dr. Battle brings more than 20 years of experience in public education as a teacher, principal, and district-level administrator. Since 2017, he has served as Assistant Superintendent of Personnel and Schools for the Hattiesburg Public School District, providing leadership in human resources, personnel management, school operations, strategic planning, academic achievement, school climate and culture, and fiscal sustainability.
“Dr. Battle is an experienced and respected educational leader who understands the importance of high expectations, strong relationships, and accountability,” said Antionette Morris, president of the Moss Point School District Board of Trustees. “The Board believes he is well prepared to lead the district and work collaboratively with our students, employees, families, and community.”
According to Hattiesburg Public School District Superintendent Dr. Robert Williams, the district held a “D” accountability rating when Dr. Battle joined the administrative team. Dr. Williams credits Dr. Battle’s leadership in teacher recruitment, retention and school operations as an integral part of the district’s advancement to an “A” rating.
Dr. Battle began his career as a teacher in the Hattiesburg Public School District before becoming assistant principal of Gulfport High School. He later served for nine years as principal of Gulfport Central Middle School, where he led efforts to strengthen academic performance, expand innovative instructional practices, increase student engagement, and support effective Professional Learning Communities. He was named the Gulfport School District Administrator of the Year for the 2012–2013 school year.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the Moss Point School District,” Dr. Battle said. “I look forward to working with the Board, employees, families, and community to strengthen student achievement and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.”
Dr. Battle earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in political science and a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration and Supervision from The University of Southern Mississippi.
He is married to Fanneta Battle, and they are the parents of Sloane Elizabeth Battle.
Dr. Battle will begin his new role on August 17, 2026.
