08/29/16: Dr. Shawn Joseph, Director, MNPS

Dr. Shawn Joseph is the newly hired Director of Metro Nashville Public Schools, the nation’s 42nd largest district, preparing more than 88,000 students to excel in higher education, work and life.

An experienced educator who has fought for excellence and equity for every student, Dr. Joseph has served over a 20-year career as a teacher, principal, district administrator, deputy superintendent and superintendent. Most recently, he worked for students in Prince George’s County Public Schools in Maryland as the head of teaching and learning. Prior to that, he was the superintendent of the Seaford County District in Seaford, Delaware.

Dr. Joseph’s work has garnered national recognition, and his expertise has been sought by other districts during transitional periods. He has won numerous awards for his work and service and is a published author and researcher, with articles in top, peer-reviewed journals of education on topics like strategic planning and principal development. In 2012, he published the book The Principal’s Guide to the First 100 Days of the School Year: Creating Instructional Momentum.

Dr. Joseph holds a bachelor’s degree from Lincoln University, a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and a doctorate from The George Washington University. He and his wife, Ocheze Joseph, who is also a public school educator, have two school-aged children.