Former Harleton ISD superintendent Dr. J. Craig Coleman has been hired as Magnet Grant Director for Longview ISD.
Dr. Coleman will administer all aspects of proposed magnet school activities, while serving as the official point of contact with the Department of Education for grant related activities, in addition to oversight of day-to-day operations in conjunction with the Director of Federal Programs and Business Office.
For a more comprehensive breakdown of Dr. Coleman's responsibilities please click here.
This position is an annual contract with a base pay of $78,625.40 paid through a five-year, $14.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education received by Longview ISD to help expand STEAM initiatives from pre-kindergarten through high school.
Dr. Coleman has been in education for over two decades in various roles, including teacher, assistant principal and principal.
Before becoming superintendent at Harleton ISD in 2007, Dr. Coleman served as a professor in the Department of Secondary Education & Educational Leadership at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches.
During his time at Harleton ISD, Dr. Coleman led the district to an Exemplary rating, oversaw construction projects and school improvement plans; led the district's acquisition of over $750,000 in grants; coordinated the passage of a Tax Ratification Election for the district in 2007; added to the district's fund balance over $4 million.
Upon his resignation from Harleton ISD on March 14, the board expressed 'sincere appreciation to Dr. Coleman for his efforts while serving as Superintendent of this great school district and its wonderful students, parents and administrators, and for the many achievements and accomplishments of the entire District team during Dr. Coleman's tenure as Superintendent.'
24-year former Harleton ISD trustee Charlie Mangham served with Dr. Coleman for 10 years and praised his qualifications as well as his 'commitment to education and the community.'
'I highly recommend Dr. Coleman to any position of educational leadership,' he said.
Though local media reports implied that 'an investigation' was conducted prior to Dr. Coleman's resignation, Mangham said it was not a matter of 'any incident of wrongdoing,' but a matter of differing philosophies going forward.
Harleton ISD's investigation for purposes of evaluating Coleman's performance was concluded without incident or report, and he was reinstated from administrative leave.
'At every step of the way Dr. Coleman did an excellent job communicating with the board and administration,' Mangham said. 'He's a true team player and a highly respected educator. With Dr. Coleman, the kids always come first.'
Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said he has been familiar with Dr. Coleman's work and reputation for a number of years, and when the administration saw the opportunity to fill an important role with such a qualified applicant, 'We jumped on it.'
Longview ISD board of trustees unanimously approved hiring Dr. Craig Coleman during the April 16 regular meeting.
'Dr. Coleman's reputation precedes him in East Texas,' Wilcox added. 'We are glad to bring him on to our team and have high expectations for him in that role.'
For more information about the Magnet program at Longview ISD, please call (903) 381-2200.