The Newton Municipal School District has appointed a new superintendent.
During a special called meeting Thursday night, the school board approved the hiring of Glenda Nickson, special services director for the Smith County School District. She will begin July 1, as current Superintendent Nola Bryant is retiring June 30.
Nickson, 55, attended Thursday’s special board meeting and, after meeting with several in the community, said she is “very enthusiastic” to go to work for the students, staff, parents and community.
“I am very honored and pleased to accept this position as the superintendent of education for Newton Municipal School District,” Nickson said. “I am excited to receive this opportunity. In my 27-year career, this is my first opportunity to serve as a superintendent, and I am looking forward to building relationships with the students, staff, parents and community in Tiger Nation.”
The board approved Nickson unanimously. Board President Arthur Nelson said her extensive background in education, ranging from working as a teacher, assistant principal and school administrator, made her stand out to the board in the selection process.
“I think she will do an excellent job with our school district,” Nelson said. “She impressed us by talking about the need for more technology, and I believe she can help us improve to get our students what they need in the 21st Century.”
Nelson said in a phone interview Saturday he believed Nickson was planning to meet with outgoing superintendent Bryant to help “create a smooth transition.”
Nickson said she began meeting with district and school staff members on Monday. In fact, she started making connections in the community moments after the board approved her as superintendent.
“I stopped at Cooks BBQ to have dinner (after the meeting), and I met several in the community,” Nickson said. “Everyone has been so welcoming and friendly. I can tell that Newton is a very close-knit community, and I am proud to be a part of it.”
She said she is happy to be a part of Tiger Nation and looks forward to working with the school board and district.
Nelson also wanted to thank Bryant for her service over the last two years.
“I appreciate everything that Dr. Bryant has done for Newton Municipal Schools over the last two years,” Nelson said. “I would like to congratulate and send best wishes to her on her retirement.”
