THOMASVILLE — Melvin Hugans — reinstated Tuesday as Harper Elementary School principal — encourages the community to help Harper become a better school and to help students excel.

Dr. Laine Reichert, who resigned recently as Thomasville City School System superintendent, did not renew Hugans’ contract.

Hugans’ supporters have been a vocal presence since Reichert’s decision. On Tuesday, the Thomasville City Board of Education voted 4-3 to reinstate Hugans.

On Wednesday, Hugans expressed gratitude for “the overwhelming amount of prayers, support and encouragement my family and I have received throughout this entire process.”

Hugans said he and his family are thankful for the many prayers, text messages, words of encouragement, insight and wisdom from so many people.

“We are reminded of what a special place Thomasville is. We are both humbled and thankful to be a part of such a supportive community,” he said.

Hugans said the experience has revealed several areas in which he, as principal, can grow personally and professionally.

“Our goal at Harper is to continue to expose students to experiences that will help them develop academically, socially and emotionally,” he said. “We will also continue our efforts to build strong bridges with every element of the community and every Harper stakeholder.”

He referred to a Yoruba proverb that states, “It takes a village to raise a child.”

“We encourage all community members to walk with us in the process to make Harper a better school and to help students become productive members of our community,” Hugans said.

He preferred not to discuss job options that were available to him after his contract was not renewed.

“My focus at this point is to continue to move Harper students forward and to prepare for the coming school year,” he said.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820