Clinton Public School District

Sumner Hill principal Dr. Matt Fulton was recently named the 2026 Mississippi Department of Education’s Mississippi Administrator of the Year during their annual Educator of the Year Program held at the Jackson Convention Complex.

“It is an honor and a pleasure to serve our students, staff, and families each day and to represent the school and the district at the state level,” Dr. Fulton said. 

Fulton has served as principal of Sumner Hill since July of 2024, previously serving as assistant principal at Clinton High School since 2019.

Clinton Public School District’s superintendent Dr. Andy Schoggin said Dr. Fulton embodies the image of service he aims to portray to his staff and students, showing that excellence in the classroom can reflect excellence of character.

“Dr. Fulton exemplifies the servant-leader model through his unique blend of administrative expertise and moral dedication,” Dr. Schoggin said. “He utilizes his platform to bridge the gap between academic excellence and character development for all students.”  

Dr. Fulton said he believes education is a service to the community and sees the job of an educator as an opportunity to instill in students an understanding of what serving others looks like. 

Fulton pointed directly to how the staff at Sumner Hill considers the needs of others more significant than themselves. 

“I’m thankful that God continues to provide opportunities to serve,” he said, “and pray that we can continue to have a positive impact on our students and our community.”

The annual Mississippi Administrator of the Year program honors an administrator who demonstrates superior ability to inspire teachers, to employ exemplary leadership practices and to participate as an active member of the community. The recipient receives a $5,000 stipend and shares expertise through various presentations and activities for the improvement of education in the state.