JOURNAL STAFF
Long-time Bossier High School Principal David Thrash has announced that he will be taking immediate medical leave until he officially retires at the end of December.
Thrash, who said the decision comes in light of recent health issues, was recently named to the LHSAA’s Executive Committee, replacing DeRidder principal Harry Hooker (who was promoted within his district).
Thrash has enjoyed a storied 40-year career in education, with the past 17 years as the principal at Bossier.
He also served as head football and baseball coach at Benton.
During his time as principal at Bossier High: the school’s letter grade improved to a ‘B;’ the graduation rate increased from 69 percent to its current 90.8 percent; he was named 2011 Louisiana State Principal of the Year and a semifinalist for 2020 Louisiana State Principal of the Year; he was the 2010 and 2018 Bossier Parish High School Principal of the Year.
“It’s been the best ride I’ve ever had,” said Thrash. “I’m leaving Bossier High better than I found it, but when you know, you know. There are more yesterdays than there are tomorrows and I am ready for the next chapter of my life.”
Thrash said that when he retires on Dec. 31, his first priority will be “my health, my grandbabies and my family. I am not ruling out doing something that will bring less stress to my life.”
He said he wants to establish the ‘Nothing Bigger Than the B Foundation’ to give back to the school and parish that gave back to him.
“The thing I will miss the most will, undoubtedly, be the kids and the interaction with a staff that I consider the best I have ever had,” said Thrash.
Assistant Principal Michele Tugwell will act as interim principal of Bossier High until the job is advertised in December and the position is filled.
