Roscoe Thomas has become the first layman to be named principal of a parochial school in the Archdiocese of Atlanta.

Thomas’ appointment as principal of St. Paul of the Cross parish school where he has been a teacher was announced this week by Father Daniel J. O’Connor, secretary for Catholic Education, and Father Edward Banks, C.P., pastor.

“The appointment of Mr. Thomas is an excellent one,” Father O’Connor said, “He has taught at the school for five years and enjoys the professional respect the sisters, lay teachers and parents at the school.”

Thomas, a graduate of Morris Brown College, is doing graduate work toward a master’s degree in business administration and education at Atlanta University. He is enrolled in a workshop for principals.

He has taught religion, spelling and modern math at the school, teaches CCD classes, assists with the parish’s athletic program and is bookkeeper for the parish and school.

Thomas is also president of the Legion of Mary at St. Paul of the Cross and is a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4421. He was a member of the former advisory council to the secretary of education.