Photo courtesy of JMCSS/Images, Shutterstock/design Tyrone Tony Reed Jr.
After a three-step interview process, a decision has been made to name Coach Erit Turner as the head football coach and director of football operations of Jackson Central-Merry High School (JCM). Turner is no stranger to the Jackson-Madison County School System (JMCSS).
A product of the district, Turner attended West Jackson Elementary, Tigrett Middle School, and JCM – a proud graduate of the Class of 2005. Turner currently serves as a health and nutrition teacher at North Parkway Middle School. He previously coached for JMCSS at North Side High School before joining the coaching staff at the University School of Jackson as co-defensive coordinator, where he served with his former high school coach, Jim Hardegree, for the last four years.
“Coach Turner’s passion for the Cougar program was evident. He has demonstrated a sense of character and I believe young men will be able to look to him as a role model,” said Superintendent Dr. Marlon King.
The interview process was a collaborative effort. The superintendent named six individuals to serve on the panel to interview the final candidates. These individuals were:
- Dr. Vivian Williams, deputy superintendent
- Dr. Ricky Catlett, deputy superintendent
- Mr. Tim Gilmer, district athletic director
- Mr. Richard Donnell, special advisor to the president – Lane College
- Ms. Ramonica Dorsey, principal – JCM
- Mr. AJ Massey, board member
Most notable, Turner was named Teacher of the Year in 2018 for the system. His teacher credentials and character are clear indicators of his ability to serve in this leadership role, as he understands the criticalness around academics and athletics.
“I always wanted to come back home and be a positive influence. My parents taught me everything I know about hard work and work ethic. I lost my Dad at the beginning of 2019. My father fought to the end; my parents and my coaches have always inspired me to work hard and overcome every obstacle,” Turner said.
Turner holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the University of Memphis, a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Freed Hardeman University, and is currently pursuing his education specialist degree with a concentration on educational leadership from Arkansas State University. Turner is a man of strong faith and attends Cane Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Jackson. Turner will begin the transition process in the coming days.
“You’re not going to find a better human being. Erit is a great character guy. JCM was always his dream job. I coached him his sophomore year at JCM and then he joined my staff at North Side in 2012 to coach the defensive line. I’m super pleased for him. He will do a great job,” said former North Side head coach Tab Vowell.