Jackson Comments on Selection as Lone Finalist

By Will Johnson
Messenger Reporter

GRAPELAND – After being named the lone finalist for the Grapeland ISD superintendent’s position on Friday, April 7, The Messenger caught up with the current Grapeland Elementary Principal to ask for his thoughts on the selection

“I am honored and blessed to have gained the GISD Board of Trustees support in being named as the lone finalist for our superintendent position,” he said.

Jackson will replace GISD Superintendent Gregg Spivey at the end of the 2016-207 school year and said while it will be tough to follow in his footsteps because he felt “… Mr. Spivey has done a wonderful job, but I do look forward to being his successor.”

The longtime educator said he first arrived in Grapeland in when he was hired as a teacher /coach in May of 1996 and had been “… connected here for the last 21 years.”

“I am thrilled to lead a district that I truly love and look forward to the challenge,” Jackson said. “God has given me wisdom, passion and purpose and lastly the place where I would like to end my career.”

When asked what his immediate goals were when assumes the district’s top spot, Jackson reflected a moment.

“My initial mission is to build relationships with our students, staff and community by being visible, accessible, available and approachable. Also by communicating, collaborating and connecting with all stakeholders,” he said.

“I am so excited and look forward to teaming up with our present administration, teacher leaders, community leaders and our outstanding board to help GISD go from being good to being great,” Jackson added.

Per state law, the process to appoint Grapeland ISD’s next superintendent has now entered a required 21-day waiting period before the school board can vote to hire and execute a contract. A start date has not yet been determined.

Will Johnson may be contacted via e-mail at [email protected].