How one Columbia school leader is shaping education beyond the usual classroom

Columbia Public Schools has tapped Douglass High School Principal Eryca Neville to lead a new role focused on students who need learning options outside traditional classrooms. Neville steps into the executive director of alternative education position after nearly a decade as Douglass High’s top administrator, having also taught in the district earlier in her career. Her local ties run deep—she serves on boards for United Way and CASA in mid-Missouri, and supports initiatives aimed at community growth. The job’s core mission is building a smoother path for students who struggle with academics, behavior, or emotional challenges. Instead of scattering services across the district, Neville will oversee a unified K–12 approach that aligns programs for these learners. The goal is better coordination among teachers, counselors, and outside agencies so students receive consistent help tailored to their needs.Behind the scenes, the district expects the new role to sharpen decision-making with real data instead of guesswork. Strong partnerships with families and local organizations will be crucial, as alternative education often depends on trust and clear communication. While specifics about Neville’s new salary haven’t been shared publicly, district records show it falls under the “professional support staff” pay scale, with earnings between about $137, 000 and $201, 000 annually. The move reflects a growing recognition that one-size-fits-all schooling doesn’t work for everyone. By centralizing leadership for non-traditional programs, the district is betting on a strategy that could improve graduation rates and post-school success for its most vulnerable students.