Superintendent Search 2025 

Dr. Brian Yearwood named next JCPS Superintendent

The Jefferson County Board of Education (JCBE) voted to approve Dr. Brian Yearwood as the next superintendent of Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS). The board chose Yearwood following a nationwide search, several interviews, and two public forums.  

Biography

Provided by Hazard Young Attea Associates

Man smiling in gray suit

Dr. Brian Yearwood

Dr. Brian Yearwood’s journey is one of perseverance, talent, and dedication. Born in the picturesque town of Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago, to parents who were both educators, Dr. Yearwood was raised in an environment that championed the transformative power of education. His early life was defined by academic curiosity and athletic prowess, as he rose to become a tennis champion on his island, eventually earning the opportunity to compete in junior Wimbledon—a testament to his extraordinary skill and determination.

At the age of 17,  Dr. Yearwood immigrated to the United States, driven by a dream and the promise of a brighter future. Recruited to play tennis at the prestigious New Mexico Military Institute, he balanced his athletic talents with academic rigor, earning an associate degree. His journey continued at Texas Tech University, where his passion for both sport and scholarship flourished. At Texas Tech, Dr. Yearwood not only competed as a member of the university’s tennis team but also served as a student coach, demonstrating his natural leadership abilities. He earned a bachelor’s degree in geology, followed by a master’s degree in educational administration, and ultimately, a doctorate in educational leadership and statistics.

Dr. Yearwood’s professional career is as impressive as his academic and athletic achievements. Beginning as a middle school physical science teacher and tennis coach, he quickly became known for his ability to inspire and elevate those around him. After just three years in the classroom, he transitioned into administration, serving as an assistant principal, principal at both the elementary and middle school levels, and later as an assistant superintendent overseeing curriculum, instruction, human resources, and academics. His journey culminated in the role of Chief Operations Officer, where he demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage complex systems and drive organizational success.

Dr. Yearwood served as the superintendent for the fourth-largest school district in Missouri, Columbia Public Schools. Under his visionary leadership, the district has achieved remarkable milestones, including a groundbreaking 16-point increase in its Annual Performance Report (APR) score, reaching an impressive 86.5%.

Dr. Yearwood’s life is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and a commitment to service. Married to his wife, Tina, a registered nurse, and father to two children, he continues to inspire others with his story of triumph and his dedication to the success of every scholar, educator, and community he serves. Dr. Yearwood exemplifies the transformative impact of leadership, education, and an unwavering belief in the potential of all.

Timeline of JCPS Superintendent Search

February

Post job application

Community engagement

Recruitment of candidates by Hazard Young Attea Associates (HYA)

March

Develop Leadership Profile based on community input

Continue community engagement

Ongoing candidate recruitment

April

Presentation of candidate slate by HYA

Review of applicants by JCBE & Screening Committee

Interview Rounds 1 and 2

JCBE narrows list to two finalists

May

Finalist interviews conducted by JCBE & Advisory Committee

Community Forum with finalists

Background checks on finalists

Offer made toYearwood

Approval of contract by JCBE

July

New superintendent starts July 1, 2025