JISD alumnus Stewart named lone finalist for superintendent position

by Jo Anne Embleton news@thecherokeean.com
Brad Stewart

Courtesy photo Brad Stewart Courtesy photo

JACKSONVILLE – Brad Stewart, a 1987 Jacksonville High School graduate who has served as Jacksonville ISD's interim superintendent for several weeks – was named Wednesday by the local school board as its lone finalist for the superintendent's position.“

The JISD Board of Trustees is thrilled to announce the selection of Brad Stewart as our lone finalist,” said board president Randy McCown in a press release following a special meeting April 28. “With his qualifications and experience, as well as his extensive knowledge of JISD, he is the ideal candidate for Jacksonville ISD."Prior to being tapped as the district's interim superintendent following the departure of Dr. Chad Kelly in March, Stewart served as the district’s associate superintendent of personnel and operation.

He began his teaching career in 1997 at Jacksonville ISD as a middle school history teacher, quickly transitioning into a leadership role and was named assistant principal for Joe Wright Elementary in 2003 before being appointed its principal, the release stated.

In 2013, Stewart became the district's director of human resources, then assistant superintendent of personnel the following year. In 2015, he was named associate superintendent of curriculum and personnel; in 2016, he began serving as the district's associate superintendent of personnel and operations.

“It is both humbling and an extreme honor to be named as the lone finalist for the

superintendent position as we continue the great work of Jacksonville ISD," Stewart said. "I very much look forward to working with our spectacular team of professionals dedicated to ensuring that JISD is a thriving, successful district for all students and staff."

Stewart received a Bachelor of Science from from UT Tyler and a Masters of Education at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, where he also received his superintendent certification.His wife Tina and their daughters Kristen, Kayla Beth and Karleigh also are JHS alumni.The release noted that the interview and selection process of a Superintendent of Schools in Texas requires the name of a lone finalist must be made public – "at least 21 days before the date of the meeting at which a final action or vote is to be taken on the employment of the person" – as required by the Texas Public Information Act.Meanwhile, board members are looking forward to working with Stewart in his new role."We are excited about him leading the district and believe the best is yet to come for us. Brad has for many years demonstrated extraordinary leadership as an Associate Superintendent, and we have total confidence in his vision and focus on the future of Jacksonville ISD," McCown said.