The Harris County Department of Education has announced the appointment of Jatata Hutton as the new principal of Academic and Behavior School West.

"Mr. Hutton is the ideal educator to lead ABS West. His extensive experience and impressive credentials left a lasting impression on the selection panel," stated Charles Ned, Ed.D., Senior Director of Special Schools. "His unwavering commitment to students and student-centered approach enables him to build positive relationships with even the most challenging students. With Mr. Hutton at the helm, ABS West will continue to excel as a premier school for students with special needs in Harris County. I eagerly anticipate working with Mr. Hutton as he assumes his new role."

Hutton brings over 20 years of experience as an esteemed educator. He holds a master's degree in educational management from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and correctional services from Jackson State University.

"I was drawn to HCDE because of its significant impact on the community," expressed Hutton. "Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to enhancing student outcomes. Serving as the principal of ABS West is the next step for me, where I can develop other professionals to support students and families."

Before joining HCDE, Hutton served as the principal of the Cambridge School in the Humble Independent School District, which caters to special needs students from kindergarten to twelfth grade.

"It is my passion to serve students with disabilities who require exceptional support," Hutton affirmed. "This particular student population holds a special place in my heart because I am a foster child. Having been adopted at birth, I don't know my biological parents. Students in special education who come from backgrounds similar to mine are often overlooked and deemed unlikely to succeed. Hence, I am an advocate for the underdog."

Hutton's career began as a corrections officer with the Jackson County Sheriff's Department, where he worked closely with adjudicated youth. He also worked as a substitute teacher to supplement his income, an experience that revealed his true calling.

"I witnessed many young individuals entering the criminal justice system, many of whom had faced unfortunate circumstances," shared Hutton. "That experience fueled my desire to understand the 'why' behind it all and led me to pursue a career in education."

Apart from his most recent role, Hutton has served as a teacher, basketball coach, and assistant principal in the Houston and Pasadena independent school districts.

Hutton, a proud father of two daughters, one of whom is a teacher in Katy ISD, has been happily married to his college sweetheart for 24 years.

To discover more about HCDE Schools, please visit hcde-texas.org/special-schools.