Jefferson County Schools Superintendent Dr. Walter Gonsoulin has been chosen as the Alabama/Schneider Electric 2025 Superintendent of the Year, as awarded by the School Superintendents of Alabama (SSA).
“Dr. Gonsoulin is the epitome of a great leader! His innovative approach to improving student outcomes, passion for expanding educational opportunities, and love for the JEFCOED family are reflective in how he leads our school system,” said JEFCOED Board President Carita Venable. “We are blessed and honored to have Dr. Gonsoulin at the helm of Jefferson County Schools. Congratulations on being named Alabama's Superintendent of the Year!”
Photo Courtesy: School Superintendents of Alabama
The announcement was made during the SSA’s Fall Conference on Wednesday in Florence. Nominations for the award are submitted annually from each of SSA’s nine districts. A state winner is then chosen based on his or her career achievements and success in advancing public education.
Under Gonsoulin’s leadership JEFCOED has developed high school signature academies and elementary theme schools. College and Career Readiness rates have steadily increased. The amount of scholarships offered to JEFCOED seniors has soared to over 108 million dollars. There has also been a renewed focus on strategic planning, school safety, and student mental health.
“I am honored and humbled to have been selected for such a prestigious honor. However, as I’ve stated previously, a good leader is only as good as his team. This award is a testament to their talent and hard work. I also have a tremendously supportive board. This district would not be where it is today, had it not been for their leadership. I thank them for their trust, confidence, and support. I will do my best to represent Alabama well at the national level,“ said Gonsoulin.
Dr. Gonsoulin was named the Superintendent of Jefferson County Schools in November 2019. He has over 30 years of experience in education and has served in various capacities including classroom teacher, principal, college professor, deputy superintendent, and ultimately superintendent. Gonsoulin will be honored by the School Superintendents of Alabama during a luncheon in March. He will also compete to be the national winner and will be recognized at the AASA National Conference on Education in New Orleans March 6-8, 2025.