COLUMBIA, Tenn. – Maury County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent, Lisa Ventura, announced Laura Duncan as principal of Battle Creek Elementary School (BCES). Earlier this year, Duncan served as the interim principal of Battle Creek Elementary in addition to the district’s Elementary School Coordinator. She returns to the principal role after being the inaugural principal at Battle Creek Elementary from 2019-2021.

“We are thrilled to welcome Laura back to Battle Creek Elementary School,” said Maury County Public Schools Superintendent, Lisa Ventura. “Her deep connection to the school’s community, combined with her proven leadership and passion for student success, makes this a truly special homecoming.”

Laura’s impressive 29-year educational career began in Florida as a teacher. Over the next 21 years, she taught in the Metro-Nashville Public School System, Franklin Special School District and Van Buren County school district. At Spencer Elementary School in Van Buren County, she served as a teacher, accountability director, assistant principal, and principal over a 15-year span.

Before joining Maury County Public Schools, Duncan was an Instructional Leadership Manager and 2^nd grade core coach at the Tennessee Department of Education. Additionally, she served as an Adjunct Professor at Middle Tennessee State University in 2023.

“It is an honor to return to Battle Creek Elementary and the incredible team there,” said Duncan. “I look forward to the upcoming school year and the opportunity to serve BCES students and families. It’s great to be a Battle Creek Cub!”

Duncan earned a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She earned a Master of Arts degree in instructional leadership and an Education Specialist degree from Tennessee Technological University.

The mission of Maury County Public Schools is to provide the educational instruction, tools, and environment for every child to succeed in LIFE as Life-long Learners, Independent Thinkers, Fearless Innovators, and Exemplary Citizens.

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