Becca Babcock has been selected as the next principal at Blue Ridge Elementary School for the 2023‐24 school year.

Babcock is currently the assistant principal at Blue Ridge Elementary School. Babcock will take over the role from current Principal Mark Burlison. Burlison announced in November he would not be returning to his position next school year.

Babcock is a Columbia native and a product of Columbia Public Schools, attending Russell Boulevard Elementary School and graduating from Rock Bridge High School.

Babcock taught for two years at Green City R‐1 and four years at Moberly Public Schools, and six years at Blue Ridge before becoming an assistant principal. Babcock holds a master’s in elementary education from Truman State University.

“We’re excited to have Ms. Babcock step into the principal role at Blue Ridge Elementary School. Her continued leadership in the building will create continuity. She is a great part of the school‐community and will do an outstanding job,” said Superintendent Brian Yearwood.