Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) has named Ben Shuldiner and Dr. H. Brian Yearwood as the two finalists in its nationwide search for a new superintendent. One of them will step into the role following the retirement of current superintendent Dr. Marty Pollio in the summer of 2025. The pair were selected from a pool of 34 applicants and are now entering the final phase of the selection process, which includes public question-and-answer sessions later this month.
Both candidates bring extensive leadership experience from other school districts and have recently been contenders for top education roles elsewhere in the country. Yearwood served as superintendent of Columbia Public Schools in Missouri from 2021 to 2024 and was a finalist earlier this year for superintendent positions in Kansas and Delaware. Shuldiner currently leads the Lansing School District in Michigan and was a March finalist to head the Clark County School District in Nevada — the fifth-largest school system in the U.S.
Despite being considered for multiple leadership roles, both men were passed over in other districts, making the Jefferson County Public Schools role a pivotal opportunity for their next step in education leadership. Shuldiner emphasized that he has not been actively job hunting but felt compelled to explore opportunities when approached directly. “I’m not unhappy,” he said in an interview, noting his commitment to Lansing but acknowledging the weight of being considered by major districts.
Track Records Show Measurable Impact in Prior Districts
The two finalists bring documented accomplishments in their respective roles. Shuldiner is recognized for turning around several key performance indicators in Lansing, including raising graduation rates by 26%, boosting attendance by 13%, and reversing trends of declining enrollment. His leadership has been marked by an emphasis on measurable progress and community involvement.
Meanwhile, Yearwood is credited with improving Columbia Public Schools’ Annual Performance Report score by 16 points during his tenure. His leadership has focused on academic growth, equity, and operational transparency — qualities that have gained him recognition even in school districts where he was not ultimately selected.
Jefferson County Public Schools Board of Education members have praised the qualifications of both candidates, highlighting their proven abilities to manage complex educational environments. As the district continues to face a range of challenges, from enrollment shifts to student achievement gaps, the board is emphasizing the need for a leader capable of collaboration and long-term vision.
Jefferson County Public Schools Community Engagement to Play Key Role in Final Decision
The final selection phase will include community engagement sessions where students, parents, educators, and other stakeholders can directly interact with the candidates. These sessions are set for Tuesday, May 20. The first will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the JCPS Center for Professional Learning, and the second from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Stopher Elementary School.
Maddie Shepard, president of the Jefferson County Teachers Association (JCTA), emphasized the importance of finding a superintendent who can build strong partnerships across the community. “We’re a huge district and we face a lot of challenges,” Shepard said. “We need someone who can work with all stakeholders — parents, kids, teachers, and community organizations.”
She also underlined the need for a leader committed to equity and inclusive policies, stating the next superintendent must be “a fierce advocate” for all students regardless of background. Jefferson County Public Schools final decision will hinge not only on professional qualifications but also on the candidates’ ability to align with the district’s diverse needs and values.
