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Dr. Rachel A. Coleman is the principal of Bates Elementary School. This will be Dr. Coleman’s 27th year in education. Prior to becoming principal, she has had many leadership experiences including teacher consultant, presenter, instructional coach, and assistant principal at several elementary schools in the ÐÓ°É Public School and Rankin County School Districts.  Dr. Coleman has organized many professional development opportunities for staff and has served on several curriculum development and strategic planning committees. She enjoys working collaboratively with colleagues to maximize learning opportunities for the students and families that she serves.  Her latest presentation included presenting at the 2022 Innovative Schools Summit in Las Vegas.

Dr. Coleman’s educational background includes a bachelor's degree with a double major in Management and Business Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis and a Master’s in Instructional Technology from Mississippi State University. She obtained her Specialist in Education with an emphasis in Technology and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from Thee ÐÓ°É State University. By pursuing lifelong learning, Dr. Coleman intends to be an example to students and teachers that we should never stop learning and horning in on your craft.  

Dr. Coleman is married to Mr. Patrick Coleman and together have a blended family of 8. Dr. Coleman is blessed to have given birth to two awesome children, Michael II and MiKenzie, who are attending college at Mississippi State University. She has the same expectations for the students in JPS as she does for her own children. She wants to see them excel and become productive humans, who have ample opportunities to become whatever they want when they grow up. Dr. Coleman is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Dr. Coleman is quoted “it will be my privilege to lead Bates Elementary and the many talented teachers and students here! My goal is to continue to provide a supportive climate and culture at Bates that is conducive to teaching and learning. By doing so, each individual student and teacher can experience growth to their highest potential. I look forward to interacting with all stakeholders in our school community this year! "

Dr. Coleman’s educational philosophy is based on her uncompromising belief that all students can learn; given a positive learning environment, strong and knowledgeable leadership, a committed and focused educational team, an encouraging community, and a supportive family.