We are excited about the fresh energy and ideas he will bring to JCPS as we work together to build on our strengths, address challenges, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Dr. Corrie Shull - Board Chair
The Jefferson County Board of Education announced the appointment of Dr. Brian Yearwood as the next superintendent of Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), beginning July 1, 2025, under a four-year contract. His selection follows an extensive nationwide search and marks a new chapter of leadership for Kentucky’s largest school district.
Located in Louisville, KY, Jefferson County Public schools is the largest public school district in the state of Kentucky. The district serves approximately 97,000 students.
Dr. Yearwood brings more than two decades of experience in education, most recently serving as superintendent of Columbia Public Schools in Missouri. Under his leadership, the district achieved a 16-point increase in its state Annual Performance Report score, reaching 86.5 percent. He credits this success to strong partnerships between schools and the communities they served.
Before his work in Missouri, Dr. Yearwood held a variety of instructional and leadership roles in four Texas school districts. His background includes work as a teacher, coach, principal, assistant superintendent, and chief operations officer, giving him a well-rounded perspective on the needs of students, educators, and families.
“This is a district (JCPS) that is full of promise, potential, strong student-centered programs, and passionate people – educators, parents, and community members,” Yearwood said. “I look forward to building strong relationships with them that will be rooted in trust and transparency.”
HYA was selected to guide the superintendent search. HYA Associate Micah Ali worked closely with the Jefferson County Board of Education and community stakeholders throughout the process. “Dr. Yearwood’s record of academic progress, fiscal management, and community engagement positions him to lead JCPS with distinction,” Ali said.
Parent/Guardian representative Britney Abdelahad thanked Ali for his work and leadership during the process and stated, “I am thankful to have been part of the process and to learn so much from you and your firm, and the other participants on the committee.”
Board Chair Dr. Corrie Shull shared, “we are excited about the fresh energy and ideas he will bring to JCPS as we work together to build on our strengths, address challenges, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.”
Featured Superintendent Searches and Executive Searches
HYA and our associates assist school districts and educational organizations across the nation with superintendent searches and executive searches. Learn about a selection of recent searches and read what school boards have to say about working with HYA and participating in our K12 search process.
