GULFPORT — Natchez native Michael Lindsey was named the top school administrator in Mississippi this year by the state Department of Education.

Lindsey is the principal at Gulfport High School.

He is a graduate of South Natchez High School and the University of Southern Mississippi. Before moving to Gulfport, he coached baseball and taught at Natchez High and was an assistant principal at Morgantown School.

Lindsey is in his eighth year leading Gulfport High. He was nominated for the state title by his school district. The state honor was announced at a banquet in Jackson in April.

The title goes to an administrator who inspires teachers, has exemplary leadership skills and participates as an active member of the community, according to the Education Department.

He is the son of Barbara Lindsey of Natchez.