From field to classroom: HCSD’s new superintendent creates game plan for student success

After 54 years in education, Mitchell King retired as the Harrison County superintendent.

In his place now is William Bentz, a former coach and teacher just like King. Prior to becoming superintendent, Bentz served as a principal where he learned coaching doesn’t only happen on the field.

“As a coach, we stay coaches throughout education. It doesn’t matter what position you’re in,” Bentz said. “We’re always teaching. We’re always coaching. We’re always trying to grow and help people grow.”

Connect. Empower. Excel. This is Harrison County School District’s theme for the year.

Bentz believes that students, teachers, and administration need to work as a team to win the game of education.

“It’s important for us to establish that relationship and make a conservative effort every day to bring that positive energy, to make a relationship. Empower our people. Empower our students. And then you will start to see them excel.”

Bentz’s goal is to keep Harrison County students willing and wanting to learn.

“Our goal is to make sure that each school is an A-rated school in Mississippi, and that we are providing our students with the best facilities, with the best education, with the best career opportunities.”

The district is A-rated, but things like chronic absenteeism, social media, and AI pose a risk to its future success. Any good player, however, is fast on their feet.

“I think the biggest thing for us as educators is to strive and grow each and every day. Every day brings a different challenge, so I think it’s very important for us to understand where each and every student comes from, and what they believe in, what they see on a daily basis. And really try to connect with them. That way we will enhance the learning. We will enhance the relationship we want to have.”

A coach’s job is to believe in his team, and Superintendent Bentz believes this district can be victorious.