Dr. Shelethia Manning McGruder/Principal 

Dr. Shelethia Manning McGruder has worked in education for over 25 years, with 20 years dedicated to the Canton Public School District. She has worked as an English teacher for middle and high school, coached cheerleading, softball, and track, and served as the Assistant Principal at Nichols Middle and Canton High School. Additionally, she acted as the district’s COVID-19 and Instructional Coordinator. Born and raised in Canton, Dr. McGruder says, "I am committed to helping district leaders achieve their goals and am also committed to serving students and assisting them in academic and personal growth."

Dr. McGruder is the daughter of Reverend A.L. Jackson Jr. and Mrs. Oneda M. Baldwin and is married to Kenneth McGruder.  She has two bonus sons, Kendarius, a former United States Marine Corps Captain, and Kentravius, a Mississippi Air National Guard Airman 1st Class.  
Dr. McGruder graduated from Canton High School in 1991. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Mississippi Valley State University (Go Devils!). Subsequently, she obtained a Master of Science degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology from Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, she received several degrees from Mississippi College, including a Master of Arts, an Education Specialist degree, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.