LINDEN-Terry Gosa was named the new principal for George P. Austin Junior High School, which houses the 6th-8th grades in Linden during a special called board meeting by the Linden City School Board. Gosa brings his strong educational background and his service to God, as he is the Pastor of Eastern Star Baptist Church in Demopolis with him to his new job.

Gosa, who is originally from Pickens County, received his B.S. in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education from the University of Alabama. He also received his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from the University of West Alabama.

“I’m just delighted to be given the trust of the board,” Gosa said.

He said the first teaching position he held was at Matthews Elementary School in Tuscaloosa County, back in 1992. After two years in Tuscaloosa County, he came to Sumter County and Livingston Junior High were he taught for three years.

“I really enjoyed my time of teaching the children of Sumter County, but I’m looking forward to this new challenge,” Gosa said.

He later moved out of the classroom and into the hallways as the Assistant Principal at LJHS for two years. He last position, before taking the job as Principal in Linden was as the Director of the Sumter County Alternative School and the At-Risk Coordinator.

“I really enjoyed my time as the Director of the Alternative School because a lot of the children there just needed a little guidance in the right direction,” Gosa said.

He said the first official day of his new position would be on July 1, 2004. He also said the expectations that have been placed on him and the school for this year are very high.

“I except the school to exceed all the expectations that have been set for it by the board and Superintendent Dr. Walter Davis,” Gosa said, “I also expect it to be a championship season.”

He said the parents of Linden could be assured that their children would get the kind of education that will prepare them for the 21st century. He also said there would be more of an emphasis placed on technology.

“I look forward to meeting all the staff at the school and making sure this year will be one of the best ever for them,” Gosa said.

He said his wife Carolyn, who is also the Mayor of York, has been behind him during this whole process.