Pam Forrest to lead Gautier High School as new principal for 2024-25 school year

Students will see a familiar face walking the halls of Gautier High School for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year.

Singing River Academy Principal Pam Forrest is making the leap from fifth and sixth graders and moving next door into the secondary world of 9th-12th grade students as Gautier High School’s new principal. She will be the first female principal to lead Gautier High School.

Forrest has been with the PGSD since 1999 as a first grade teacher right where she is now although Singing River Academy was an elementary school at the time. In 2000, Forrest moved to Martin Bluff Elementary School where she taught first grade and later on, third grade, while earning her National Board Certified Teacher credentials.

In July 2006, she was selected as Jackson Elementary School Principal where she was honored with the Administrator of the Year award in 2009. She returned to Singing River Elementary as principal for three years before the school transitioned into a 5th-6th grade academy in July of 2013.

Forrest attended the Ron Clark Academy and fully implemented systems to build rapport, culture and leadership opportunities to students. Under her leadership, Singing River Academy has grown to a Level B school and been awarded a number of PREPS Value Added Awards. She has also served as a mentor to principal interns.

Forrest will take over as principal of Gautier High School from Roy Tolbert, who is retiring at the end of the 2024 school year. Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education Dr. Caterria Payton, said Mrs. Forrest brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the students, staff and families in the PGSD.

“Mrs. Forrest’s deep-rooted connection to the area, coupled with her passion for education and proven track record of success positions her perfectly to lead Gautier High School to new heights of excellence. Mrs. Forrest will be an excellent addition to the PGSD secondary team,” Payton said.

Mrs. Forrest is married to Noel Forrest and they have two children, Emery Kate Rone and Maelyn Forrest. She is a member of St. Pierre’s Episcopal Church in Gautier.

“Stepping into the role of principal at Gautier High School fills me with excitement,” Forrest said. “I’m eager to work alongside students, staff and community members, building on the momentum that’s already in motion. Together, we will create a future filled with limitless possibilities and unparalleled achievements. Go Gators!”