PERRY -- The new principal of Russell Elementary School is Jo Hall, per a Houston County Board of Education vote Tuesday.

The board approved Hall’s promotion as part of three personnel votes that followed an hour-long executive session. The other two matters were terminations of employees who hadn’t returned to work this school year, according to comptroller Stephen Thublin.

Superintendant Robin Hines said Hall, formerly assistant principal for instruction at the school, has been acting principal since school began Aug. 1. She replaces Keith Lauritsen, who resigned two weeks ago, Hines said.

“She was already so involved ... in all aspects,” he said. “It was real easy for her to pick up” the lead position.

Russell Elementary made news in May when a fifth-grader walked off campus and was found 48 hours later hiding outside. Hines said Lauritsen’s departure was not connected to the incident.

Lauritsen “took another position in another county,” Hines said.

Hall was a teacher for 12 years before serving as assistant principal for 12 more years, Hines said.

To contact writer Christina M. Wright, call 256-9685.