Campbell County, Tennessee’s online source for information!  •  An online publication of the LaFollette Press

By JENNIFER CALDWELL

stories@lafollettepress.com

The terms of his contract are not yet finalized, but Dr. Mike Martin’s enthusiasm about the prospect of being Campbell County's next director of schools is evident.

“I am terribly excited about the decision. It was a great feeling to get the news,” Martin said during a phone interview on Monday evening.

Campbell County Board of Education members voted on Thursday to extend a contract offer to Martin.

The father of six, whose entire career has focused on affecting lives through education, says he is serious about improving local schools for a number of reasons.

With two elementary school aged children poised to enter Campbell County’s school system, Martin’s interest in elevating educational standards is personal as well as professional.

“This (accepting the director of schools position) is not an abstract event for me.  It applies directly to me,” Martin explained of his interest in his children’s education.

“It’s not that I want to make things better just for my kids.  That wouldn’t be fair,” Martin said. “I want to make things better for all kids.”

One way Martin plans to implement his ideas for improvement is through teamwork and effective communication. This is practice will apply to the board as well as central office staff, principals and teachers.

According to Martin, being visible and accessible to employees and students is one way to keep the lines of communication open.

“If you don’t get out there (into the schools), you won’t hear about problems until it’s too late,” Martin said.

While Martin anticipates a smooth transition, he is realistic in his expectations for gaining community support.

“Just saying trust me doesn’t cut it,” Martin said.

The veteran administrator says establishing a track record of consistency and fairness with all groups is the best way to alleviate anxiety. Martin knows this trust must be earned.

“I can’t alleviate all fears on day one,” Martin explained.

With air of humility in his voice, Martin said that acceptance and personal comfort are not his main objective.

“It’s not about me.  It is about your kids and their education.  I am really out to care for your children,” Martin said.

“I just want to do right by the kids, the community and the board,” Martin concluded.

Martin earned a bachelor’s degree in biological science from Kearney State College and a master’s in biological science from Adams State College.

As he began his career as a classroom teacher in 1970, Martin continued his own education earning a variety of endorsements in education and administration.

In 1988, he earned a doctor of education in administration from the University of Wyoming.

In addition to being a classroom teacher Martin has worked in the roles of assistant principal and principal and. His career has also garnered him more than 20 years of experience as superintendent in five school systems across the country.

Board picks Martin to head system