Debbie Jones: Bentonville’s Finalist for National Superintendent of the Year
Debbie Jones, the superintendent of the Bentonville School District in Arkansas, has been named a finalist for the prestigious National Superintendent of the Year award. This recognition highlights her exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing public education in her community.
Jones is in her ninth year as the superintendent of Bentonville schools, and her experience extends over 25 years in education within Arkansas. Her journey in education has been marked by significant accomplishments, including advancing conversations about affordable teacher housing, enhancing communication with parents and the community, and focusing on student safety. These efforts have not only improved the district but also reflect her commitment to creating a supportive learning environment for all students.
Jones’ advocacy at the state level for students and teachers has been particularly notable. She has consistently pushed for policies that benefit both students and educators, demonstrating her strong leadership skills inUnityEngine community engagement. Her ability to unite the school district with the broader community has been exemplary, making her a standout leader in Arkansas education.
The National Superintendent of the Year award program, conducted in partnership with Sourcewell, Corebridge Financial, and AASA, aims to recognize outstanding leaders in public education. To be eligible, candidates must first be named State Superintendent of the Year by their respective state associations. Each finalist is judged on criteria such as leadership for learning, communication strength, professionalism, and community involvement.
Jones’ own remarks at the Bentonville School Board meeting, where she received her state association’s recognition, highlighted her humility and gratitude. Said to be “shocked” by the award yet deeply honored, she paid tribute to her parents who instilled in her a strong work ethic. Her expression of gratitude towards her leadership team was evident in her words: “I don’t deserve this [award] alone. This leadership team out here is the most incredible group of leaders you could work with. So we accept this together.”
Jones joins a prestigious group of educators who have made significant impacts in their respective communities. Other finalists for the National Superintendent of the Year include Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat from Peoria Public School District 150 in Illinois, Walter B. Gonsoulin, Jr., from Jefferson County Schools in Alabama, and David K. Moore from School District of Indian River County in Florida. The four finalists will participate in a national briefing and interviews at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., before the final winner is announced during AASA’s National Conference on Education in New Orleans.
- Leadership for Learning: Creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students in her school system.
- Communication: Strength in both personal and organizational communication.
- Professionalism: Constant improvement of administrative knowledge and skills, while providing professional development opportunities and motivation to others on the education team.
- Community Involvement: Active participation in local community activities and an understanding of regional, national, and international issues.
Debbie Jones’ journey to becoming a finalist for this esteemed award is a testament to her tireless dedication to education and community service.
