With nearly a decade of leadership at Trezevant High School, Principal Eric Brent is reshaping school culture, strengthening academics, and inspiring students to rise above expectations. In celebration of National Principals Month, the Memphis City Council recognized Principal Brent for his transformational leadership and lifelong commitment to student success. 

A proud Covington, Tennessee, native, Principal Brent has dedicated more than 20 years to education, grounded in his belief that service, discipline, and community are the cornerstones of great leadership. His journey has long been guided by mentorship and purpose. As a standout scholar-athlete at Covington High School, he was encouraged by his late mentor, Pastor Darrell K. Rozell, to pursue higher education and athletics, advice that opened the door to Lane College. There, he excelled as a multi-sport athlete, student leader, and eventual Hall of Fame inductee. 

“I’ve always been well-rounded through sports and ambitious through education,” Principal Brent said. “Those two worlds taught me how to lead and how to serve.” Initially drawn to early-childhood education, he ultimately followed his passion for coaching and youth development. After earning his degree in physical education, he returned to teach at his alma mater, where he also became Covington High’s first African American soccer coach. His first Memphis-Shelby County Schools placement was at Hamilton High, where he coached multiple sports and became known for mentoring students beyond the classroom. 

Principal Brent credits his coaching background as the foundation of his leadership. “Coaching helped me navigate my career. It taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance,” he said. “Those lessons carry over into how I currently lead my school.” At Trezevant High, his leadership centers on a single mission: building relationships and transforming culture. He launched the B.E.M.A.S.S.I.V.E. initiative, short for Believe Everyone Makes Academic Strides So I Value Education, to promote growth mindsets, student empowerment, and academic excellence. Under his direction, Trezevant has achieved measurable progress in TVAAS growth, teacher retention, and attendance rates. Once labeled a Level 3 institution for over two decades, the school is now charting a new course toward success. 

Students affectionately call Principal Brent the “unofficial mayor of Frayser,” a title that reflects his deep-rooted commitment to the community he serves. “At Trezevant, we’re not just transforming a school,” he said. “We’re shaping generations. When our students succeed, our entire community thrives.” 

Beyond the school, Principal Brent continues to build strong partnerships with Agape Child & Family Services and other local organizations to provide essential resources and support for students and families. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Trevecca Nazarene University, he remains focused on developing future leaders and fostering lasting cultural change. “My goal is to change generations and shift culture,” he said. “That’s what true leadership is about – helping people grow as we climb together.”