By: Tom Williams | October 20, 2025
Clarksdale, MS — Coahoma County High School Principal Tyinika Shaw is celebrating her third year of leadership, and a major turnaround story. When she first took the helm, the school carried an “F” rating. Today, it proudly holds a “B” rating, marking a remarkable leap in academic growth, culture, and student achievement.
Before joining Coahoma County High, Shaw brought nearly 20 years of experience in education, having served as assistant principal at both Riverside High School and West Tallahatchie High School. Initially, she applied for the assistant principal position at CCHS — but was offered the principal’s role instead.
“I prayed on it, and I called them back and told them I’d accept the job,” Shaw recalled. “I walk in faith.”
Faith continues to guide her leadership. “I teach my students that they can do all things through Christ who strengthens them,” she said. “I see myself as their principal, mother, father, and role model. I saw that the culture needed changing, so I put a lot of things in place. I have a wonderful assistant principal and teaching staff. My teachers are the best.”
Shaw’s leadership philosophy centers on love, accountability, and consistency. “Building relationships with students takes time, patience, and genuine care,” she said. “It’s about trust — and that doesn’t happen overnight. I make it a priority to listen, understand their challenges, and show consistent love and support. When students know you care, they’ll rise to the expectations you set.”
That approach has paid off. Under her leadership, the school’s accountability score has risen steadily, from 590 to 619 to 659, solidifying its “B” status.
“It feels amazing — not just for me, but for our entire school community,” Shaw said. “This was truly a team effort. We focused on tracking data, holding ourselves accountable, and, as I often say, ‘inspecting what we expect.’ Our teachers have worked extremely hard, and our students have bought into the vision. I’ve motivated them, but more importantly, I’ve loved them through the process.”
Looking ahead, Shaw’s goal is clear: reaching an “A” rating.
“Reaching an A will take the same ingredients that got us to a B — just at a higher level of consistency and focus,” she said. “We must continue using data to drive instruction, strengthen interventions, and ensure every student shows measurable growth. It will take collaboration among teachers, professional development, family engagement, and maintaining the culture of motivation and love that defines Coahoma County High. With faith, focus, and teamwork, I believe we’ll get there.”
Under Shaw’s leadership, Coahoma County High School continues to embody its motto of faith, focus, and excellence — proving that transformation happens when a community believes, works together, and leads with love.
*To report a spelling or grammar error or inaccurate information, please email us at info@clarksdaleadvocate.news. Please include the headline.
