For National Principal’s Month, we honor U.S. Jones Elementary principal, Alphus Shipman. Mr. Shipman is married to Kimberly and has two sons and a daughter. He began his educational career as a coach right down the road at John Essex. He continued his coaching career in Mobile at Blount, Abbeville, and Tuscaloosa City. While in Tuscaloosa, Mr. Shipman obtained his instructional leadership degree and became an assistant principal. Now he leads our third-fifth grade team as principal. " I absolutely love this place and the people. It is a kind city. I get to see the children of former students and I love it." - Alphus Shipman
Shipman is a source of inspiration and guidance in our school community, and we are truly fortunate to have him. He leads by example, showing us that true leadership is about empathy, understanding, and respect. He treats each student and staff member with kindness and genuine concern, making him not just an authority figure but a friend and mentor to all.
Thank you for your dedication to the growth and success of USJ. We are grateful for you and your guidance and look forward to the continued inspiration you provide.
Mr. Shipman is such a positive person and loves his job. That enthusiasm is infectious. You can tell by the way all the students want to greet him and give him a high five. This culture and climate helps tremendously to spread into the faculty and the community. Mr. Shipman is such a blessing to the USJ team. - Superintendent Tony Willis