On Monday, October 22, 2018, the Board approved Mr. Hixson, by a vote of 7-0, to lead their school district. The position was previously filled by Steve Starnes, who accepted a director of schools position in Greeneville, Tennessee earlier this year.
Hixson has been employed by SJUSD for the past 17 years, serving as teacher, assistant principal, principal and director of technology before assuming the assistant superintendent position in 2013.
“Matt is a long-time valued member of the SJUSD family,” said Diane Perez, SJUSD Superintendent. “I will miss Matt’s leadership, friendship, vision, and steadfast work in accomplishing what’s truly best for our students and community,” continued Perez. “He has been an equity leader and a champion for all kids. He truly takes the SJUSD values of excellence, student success, innovation and integrity to heat. I wish him the best with this amazing opportunity—I don’t know if his new school district realizes just how lucky they are!”
According to their website, Hawkins County Schools includes 19 schools, listing 11 elementary, four middle, two comprehensive high schools, one alternative high school, and one K-12 school with campuses spread over five towns and cities and surrounding communities.
Matt states, “It is difficult to say goodbye to the SJUSD Family, including those at Noli Indian School where I began my K-12 teaching career. Although I will miss my friends and colleagues in San Jacinto, my family and I are ready to take on a new challenge in Northeast Tennessee. I would like to thank the Board, Cabinet and all of my peers with whom I worked with the last 17 years.”
Hixson will continue in his current position with SJUSD until a replacement has been identified.