JACKSON – Administrator Willie Bell was honored as Northampton County’s Principal of the Year at Monday night’s meeting of the Northampton County Board of Education.

Bell, principal of Northampton County High School—West (NCHS—West), said he was surprised when his name was announced.

“It’s a distinguished award and I feel really good to receive it,” he said in a telephone interview with the Roanoke-Chowan News-Herald.

Chosen by his peers, the nine other administrators from around the county, Bell will have a chance to compete against other principals at the regional, state and national levels.

“I’ll do all my best to represent Northampton County Schools,” Bell said about the upcoming regional competition.

He thanked his staff, who he said were just as responsible for his award along with his wife and family who he credited with allowing him the time to do his job.

Bell earned his undergraduate degree from Virginia State University with a double major in computer science and math. He received his master’s degree in administration and supervision with a curriculum specialist endorsement from East Carolina University and went on to receive an educational specialist degree in administration/supervision from Cambridge College.

Before becoming principal at NCHS—West, he served at as the director of 21st Century Community Learning Center Program and principal at Enfield Middle School and Weldon Middle School.

He lives in Enfield with his wife, Wymeatrice, and their children Shaqua, Evan and Shaquasia.

Bell received an engraved clock, gift certificate, a plant to adorn his office as well as a check for $500.