When Sallie Humble Elementary principal David Claxton makes a promise to his students, he keeps it, no matter what it costs him.

Friday, students at the elementary school watched as teachers shaved Claxton's head — the fulfillment of a challenge that he made last year.

Claxton promised students that if the school improved its performance score to more than 100, he would allow the teachers to give him a haircut.

As the students filed into the gymnasium, they had no idea what to expect. When Claxton reminded them of his promise, the excitement increased. School performance scores released last week by the state department of education showed that Sallie Humble's growth score had reached 101.

Claxton sat in a chair and donned a leopard print hairdresser's cape.

Teachers seemed a little reluctant to begin the job, but students chanted:

"Shave it! Shave it!" and the hair piled on the floor. A nearly bald Claxton took a break and stood up to talk to the students.

"I would do almost anything for you to get a good education," he said. "I want you prepared for junior high. I want you to read and write, do math and have a great life."

In order for his students to reach those goals, Claxton is already planning for next year. He told students that if the school hits 105 on next year's scores, he will come to school dressed as a lady.

"I will wear high heels, panty hose, a dress, wig and makeup for one whole day at school," Claxton said.