School Board
School Board Members
Dr. Daniel Henley
District 2
Dr. Daniel Henley, a native of Kiln, Mississippi, and a graduate of Hancock High School, was elected in November 2022 and began his term in January 2023 and will serve through December 2028. Dr. Henley has twenty-two years of experience in education as a high school principal, teacher, college instructor, coach, and bus driver. He has an Associate of Arts in English and history from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, a Bachelor of Science in social science and English in secondary education from William Carey University, a Master of Education in English in secondary education from William Carey University, an Educational Specialist in educational leadership in teaching and learning from Walden University, and a Doctor of Education in educational leadership in teaching and learning from Walden University. He received his first Post Doctorate in higher education and adult learning in November 2023 from Walden University, and he is currently pursuing his second Post Doctorate in educational leadership and policy from Walden University. He aims to work together with all of the stakeholders of the Hancock County School District in order to help provide the best quality of education possible and to help the district become one of the leading districts in Mississippi. He looks forward to working with each constituent of the district, and he truly believes in Mr. David Kopf’s, a former superintendent of the Hancock County School District, quote: “Today a Hawk, Tomorrow a Hawk, Forever a Hawk – Hawk Pride!”
Dr. Jennifer Seal
District 4
Dr. Jennifer Seal began serving the Hancock County School Board in January 2007. She was then elected to three subsequent terms, the most recent of which runs through December 2030. During her tenure, she as served as President of the Board for eighteen years.
Professionally, Seal serves as Executive Vice President for Planning and Accreditation at Pearl River Community College. Prior to her employment at PRCC, she taught mathematics at Hancock High School for nine years.
She and her husband, Michael, own and operate several businesses throughout the coastal region and in Hancock County. They, along with their daughter Raleigh, a rising senior at Hancock High School, attend Crane Creek Baptist Church.
She looks forward to continued service on the Board to effectively and efficiently manage the resources of the Hancock County School District, ensuring the best education for each and every child within the District.
Ms. Danita Holladay
District 5
Danita Ladner Holladay began serving in January 2015. She is married to Rick Holladay. They have 4 sons, Richard, Grant, Evan and Mason. Her four sons are graduates from Hancock High School and are currently attending college. Her two youngest sons are students at Hancock High School. She is an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Dedeaux. She is the Executive Director of Acorn Adoption Agency. She has a Master’s Degree in Social Work.
