Michael D. Odom

age: 36 | Principal | Texarkana Arkansas School District

The proud principal of Arkansas High School, Michael Odom’s chief responsibilities include guiding AHS’s mission, vision, and purpose, empowering his staff to make a difference, and inspiring students to persevere in an unpredictable world.  “The next generation must have the skills to be successful in an ever-changing world,” he explains.  “This gives me great purpose every day.

“Arkansas High School (AHS) received the highest college readiness index of all high schools in the Texarkana Metropolitan area by US News Report 2020.  I credit the incredible staff and students for this great honor,” Michael acknowledges.  “The innovative AHS Collegiate Academy, Advanced Placement, and Concurrent credit programs provide our students with unprecedented access to college courses and the skills needed for success in a post-secondary education.”

Married to Ashlie, Michael enjoys being a father to his four children: Samuel (13), Elizabeth (12), Emma (8), and Annabelle (4).  He loves getting back to nature, whether hiking, boating, or fishing.  He also enjoys singing and playing a variety of musical instruments.  As the minister of music at First Presbyterian Church, Michael is involved with various missions and projects of the church, which benefits the entire Texarkana community.

“Weaving in community involvement to the mission and vision of AHS is very important to me,” Michael explains.  “This past year, I launched a new community service initiative that encouraged students to give back to Texarkana.  As a result, all seniors had the opportunity to volunteer at various nonprofit corporations and elementary schools throughout Texarkana.”

Michael remembers setting a goal to be a principal by the age of 30, and he has exceeded that goal.  Since that time, he has set a goal to become a superintendent so he hopes to see that goal come to fruition within the next 10 years.

Best piece of advice:

“There is a difference between believing in your questions and questioning your beliefs.” — Rev. Bill Odom, Michael’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

Name something about you that very few people know: “I am an amateur storm chaser!”