R.B. Hudson Middle School Principal Logan Searcy considers herself to be much more than a school administrator. Overseeing more than 500 students, she said she views herself more as a mother.

And with a deep passion for guiding today’s youth, Searcy said it will be difficult to step down as principal and assume a position in research and development at the Alabama Department of Education.

“I feel like it’s a decision I made to affect positive change for all the students in Alabama, not just in Selma,” said Searcy, who has served as principal of the historic middle school for three years. Prior to that, she taught at Cedar Park Elementary.

“Some of the students I had at Cedar Park, I now have at R.B. Hudson,” Searcy said. “So I’ve watched them since first grade and now they’re eighth graders. When you teach children for that long, they become yours.”

While serving as principal, Searcy said she has gained valuable insight into the interworking of a school. Not only managing students, Searcy said one of her main priorities has also been making sure teachers have all the materials they need and all classroom equipment is up to date.

“As principal, you have a lot of responsibilities — and not just to your students,” she said. “You have to be there for your teachers and your staff because you have to support them and love them, and make sure they’re given the right information and the professional development they need.”

While at the state department of education, Searcy’s main duties will include overseeing the rollout of Assist AdvancED and Plan 2020, two programs meant to enhance education in Alabama.

As a former English teacher, Searcy said transitioning into her new position will be seamless.

“This is perfect for me. In a way, I’m going back to something that I love,” Searcy said. “The part that I’ll miss the most is the fact that I won’t be with children — that’s going to be the toughest part.”

And although she will no longer serve as principal, Searcy said her passion for children and teaching will not diminish — her role is just shifting.

“My years in the Selma City Schools have been good ones, and I wish that everyone in Selma could know as I do the potential of our students,” she said. “I am a believer of our town. Yes, I know as well as anyone the conflicts, but I think we are better than that. It is our character today that counts.”