Julie Fulcher Fancher to Lead Nanih Waiya Attendance Center as Principal

With a passion for fostering academic growth and personal development, Julie Fulcher Fancher, a native of Louisville, has dedicated her career to education, spanning more than 28 years. Mrs. Fancher is the daughter of Freddy and Patsy Fulcher, and the late Judy Jones Fulcher of the Bond community of Winston County.

Beginning as an elementary school teacher, she worked tirelessly to instill a love for learning in young students, cultivating environments where curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking flourished. Over the years, she honed her skills and knowledge, contributing not only to students’ academic successes but also to their emotional and social growth.

Throughout her career, Fancher held various positions in education, each time expanding her expertise in curriculum, classroom management, student engagement, professional development, student support services, assessment, and accreditation and accountability. Recognizing the importance of building relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, she became an advocate for inclusive educational practices that address the diverse needs of all learners. 

After earning her bachelor’s, master’s and specialist’s degrees from Mississippi State University, Fancher transitioned into administrative leadership, earning positions as assistant principal, mtss director, district test coordinator, director of accreditation and accountability and principal. Most recently she has served as Principal in the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District for 8 years. She brings an innovative approach to school leadership, always keeping the focus on improving student outcomes and creating a positive, safe, and welcoming school culture. Fancher's collaborative leadership style encourages professional development and continuous learning among staff while maintaining high standards for student achievement. 

Perhaps one of the greatest testimonies to Fancher's success in education comes from her former teachers and students. Fancher has been described by her teachers at Henderson Ward Stewart Elementary as a "fearless leader," "so positive" and able to "find a bright side to every situation." When Fancher moved to West Elementary School for the 24-25 school year, she was thanked by her HWSE family for "the strong leadership and heart Mrs. Fancher has poured into Henderson during her time as principal."

Fancher looks to bring that same energy and excitement to Nanih Waiya Attendance Center. She will become the principal for the 25-26 school year.

Throughout her career, she has received multiple awards and accolades for leadership, teaching excellence, and making positive contributions to education.

She believes that every child has the potential to succeed and strives to create opportunities for every student to reach their full potential, regardless of background or circumstances.

When not at school, Fancher enjoys spending time with her family. She resides in Louisville with her husband Slade and their two children, Aiden (21) and Ainsley (10).

“I am extremely excited to join the Nanih Waiya community as its new principal. Being from Louisville, I know the importance and value the NW community places on family, work, athletics, and its school! Together, we will expect nothing but excellence!” 

"I look forward to partnering with our dedicated educators, families, and community members to build on the strong foundation already in place and create an environment where every student is empowered to succeed. Together, we will continue to foster a culture of collaboration, growth, and respect, ensuring that all students are prepared for a bright future."