Craig Names Carly Morris as New Moffat County High School Principal

I'm sitting with Carly Morris in the Moffat County High School office, surrounded by maps of Craig and the surrounding countryside. She's just been announced as the new principal, and I'm eager to hear her thoughts on the community and the school. Morris, who's moving from Unalaska City School in Dutch Harbor, Alaska, is beaming with excitement - and it's infectious.

She talks about the school being a cornerstone of the town, and how everyone she's met has a story about graduating from MCHS or having kids who attend. You can tell she's done her research, and she's genuinely enthusiastic about the role education plays in Craig. I've lived in this town long enough to know that's not just talk - folks around here take their school pride seriously.

Morris has an impressive background in education, with master's degrees in Educational Leadership and Special Education. She's worked in various capacities, from special education to project-based learning, and has developed curriculum and trained instructors. That kind of experience will undoubtedly serve her well in this new role. If you've been paying attention to the school district's efforts to improve student outcomes, you know how crucial it is to have a principal who can balance different educational approaches.

As we chat, it becomes clear that Morris is eager to dive into the various programs and activities that make MCHS tick. She mentions the arts, CTE, and sports - all the things that make high school a rich and engaging experience for kids. You've seen the parking lot at pickup time, packed with parents and kids heading to practice or rehearsals - it's the kind of thing that brings a community together.

Superintendent Mathew Neal is equally enthusiastic about Morris's hiring, saying she "really stood out" among a strong group of candidates. He believes she's the right leader for the school at this moment, and that she'll build on the positive momentum that's already underway. Neal's confidence in Morris is clear, and he's looking forward to seeing her in action.

I also had a chance to talk to interim principal Erika Miller, who will be moving back into her previous role as assistant principal. Miller's been doing a great job keeping things running smoothly, and she's eager to support Morris in her new role. Miller's commitment to the school's success is evident, and her experience will provide valuable continuity.

As I leave the school, I'm thinking about what this means for Craig and the surrounding area. We've got a new leader who's clearly passionate about education and community - and that's a great starting point. If you've got kids in the district, you already know how important it is to have a principal who's engaged and supportive.

The fact that Moffat County has only one high school makes this hire even more significant. As Neal pointed out, the high school principal is a key figure in the community - and that means Morris will have a big role to play in shaping the school's culture and direction. From sports to theater and the arts, MCHS is a hub of activity that brings people together.

As we look ahead to the 2026-27 school year, it's clear that there are big expectations for Morris and the school. Neal's already talking about growth and momentum - this will undoubtedly be an exciting time for the school. Ask any parent how much they value a strong, supportive school community, and you'll get a sense of just how important this hire is.

On Monday morning, Morris will be back at work, getting ready to meet with staff and students, and start building on the school's strengths. That's what comes next for her - and for the community.