The Marion School District has again drawn on its leadership depth to fill a key position, naming Natasha Clay as Principal of Marion Junior High School for the 2026-27 school year.
Clay succeeds Emily Hall, who last week was named Principal of Marion High School.
Clay brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as Assistant Principal at both Marion High School and Marion Junior High School. She also spent a year as director of the district's Alternative Learning Environment (ALE) program and has served as teacher, media specialist, and instructional facilitator in the Earle and West Memphis school districts.
Before entering the field of education, she also held roles as a family service worker for the Department of Human Services and as an investigator for the Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division. It is this experience that Clay said gives her a unique perspective coming into her new position.
“Protecting and advocating for children has always been at the heart of everything I've done,” Clay said. “No matter what role I've served in, my goal has always been to help young people feel safe, supported, and empowered to succeed. As principal, I want every student at Marion Junior High to know they are valued, they belong, and they are capable of achieving great things.”
According to Dr. Glen Fenter, Marion superintendent, Clay's appointment reflects the district's continued commitment to placing exceptional leaders in every school.
“When we search for school leaders, we're looking for people with outstanding experience, proven leadership, and an unwavering commitment to children,” Fenter said. “Natasha embodies all of those qualities. Her background has given her a unique perspective on meeting students where they are, supporting families, and building a school culture where every child has the opportunity to succeed. We're excited about the future of Marion Junior High under her leadership.”
Originally from West Memphis, Clay holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Arkansas State University, master’s degrees in both library media and teaching from the University of Central Arkansas, and a specialist’s degree in school leadership, also from UCA.
“My career has reinforced one belief above all else: The greatest opportunity we have to make a lasting difference in the lives of children is through education,” Clay said. “That's why I'm committed to building a positive culture for both our students and our staff. When educators feel valued, supported, and empowered, they're able to give their very best to students every day. My goal is to create an environment where every student feels safe, challenged, and inspired to succeed -- not only academically, but as confident, compassionate young people who are prepared for whatever comes next.”
The Marion School District is an innovative and growing district that ensures an equitable, engaging learning community where every student is empowered to achieve academic excellence and personal growth. With more than 150 years of experience serving families in Crittenden County, the district offers a high school, a junior high, a seventh grade academy, and three award-winning magnet schools. For enrollment information, including information on school choice, visit https://www.msd3.org/ or call 870-739-5100.