Biloxi School District principal charged with fraud

Melissa Dawn Nance

WXXV News 25 has learned that a Biloxi school principal is behind bars today after her arrest at one of the schools.

Melissa Dawn Nance, 56, was arrested during meetings as the school district prepared for the upcoming school year. She is listed on the Nichols Elementary School website as the principal.

Nance is charged with three felonies — conspiracy, intent to defraud and making fraudulent statements and representations.

She is being held without bond at the Harrison County jail.

The state Attorney General’s Office is listed as the arresting agency and Nance is on a hold for Yalobusha County officials.

Water Valley School District and Coffeeville School District are in Yalobusha County.

The Attorney General’s Office and Yalobusha Sheriff’s Office have not returned calls seeking comment.

Biloxi School District said in a statement: “This morning, the Biloxi Public School District was made aware of charges against Nichols Elementary Principal Melissa Nance by the Mississippi State Auditor’s Office. These charges are related to activities outside of the Biloxi Public School District. At this time, Mrs. Nance has been placed on administrative leave while this issue is resolved. Mrs. Nance is a long-time employee and principal with an excellent record of success in the Biloxi Public School District. As we await the outcome of these allegations, we will continue to cooperate fully with the State Auditor’s Office.”

WXXV will continue to update the story as more information is made available.