Gifford Whitehead named Principal of Oak Hills JH

~ Montgomery ISD

Whitehead returns as leader of Oak Hills Junior High after time at Lake Creek HS 

After an extensive search and competitive interview process with both internal and external candidates, Montgomery ISD has selected Gifford Whitehead as the next Principal of Oak Hills Junior High.  

“Mr. Whitehead is a highly regarded and well-respected leader in our district,” Superintendent Dr. Heath Morrison said. “His ability to connect with students and staff and communicate effectively with families has been proven throughout his time in Montgomery ISD and I have utmost confidence in the direction of Oak Hills Junior High School under his leadership.”  

Whitehead opened Oak Hills JH as Assistant Principal in 2017 and served four years in that capacity, before moving to Lake Creek as an Assistant for the 2021-2022 school year. Before opening Oak Hills, Whitehead served as Assistant Principal at Montgomery Middle School, Lynn Lucas Middle School (Willis ISD) and taught at Montgomery HS, Huntsville HS and Lockhart JH.  

Having previously served as an AP at Oak Hills, Whitehead’s leadership and established relationships will make for a smooth transition and continue to enhance the culture in place at Oak Hill Junior High School. Whitehead brings to this position nearly a decade of experience as an administrator at the secondary level. His work as an Assistant Principal at Lake Creek High School this year has also been recognized as outstanding, particularly in the areas of connecting with students, effectively communicating with families, and leading teachers.

“The secondary level is where my heart has always been, and I’m thrilled for the opportunity to return to Oak Hills,” Whitehead said. “My passion is supporting the growth of students who are at the point in their lives when they are trying to figure out who they are, where they fit in and what kind of person they want to be. Leading and supporting the amazing staff in place at Oak Hills that take this the journey alongside our students will be a privilege.” 

Whitehead is married to Montgomery JH Science teacher Melanie Whitehead and together they have three daughters in Montgomery ISD. Abigail is 15 and attends Montgomery HS, Aleah is 14 and attends Montgomery JH and Ashlynn is 11 and attends Montgomery ES. He is a graduate of East Texas Baptist University with a bachelor’s degree in Education. Whitehead received his Master’s of Education in Instructional Leadership from Sam Houston State University in 2012.  

“His knowledge of the campus and the Lion community and his relationships with staff and families will provide for a smooth transition in both leadership and style,” Morrison said. “The next chapter of Oak Hills is being written and I’m excited about what lies ahead.”