FISD Dr. Terry: Region 10 Superintendent of the Year
Forney ISD’s Dr. Justin Terry named Region 10’s Superintendent of the Year
Region 10 Education Service Center is proud to announce Dr. Justin Terry, Forney ISD Superintendent, as the 2024 Region 10 Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Terry was nominated by the Forney ISD Board of Trustees and selected for this honor by an interview and selection committee made up of board members representing school districts across the region.
Dr. Terry has served Forney ISD for more than a decade, first as deputy superintendent and now as superintendent. His dedication to fostering a positive school climate, promoting open communication, and driving educational innovation has earned him this prestigious recognition.
“As the school board president of Forney ISD, I have had the pleasure of working closely with Dr. Justin Terry for the past 10 years, first as the deputy superintendent and now as the superintendent,” Board President Greg Pharris said. “I can say without reservation that he is an exceptional, innovative servant leader who has not only made a significant impact on our district and our entire community, but is sharing his ideas, experiences, and innovations with the entire state, impacting other districts and public education throughout Texas and beyond.”
Under Dr. Terry's leadership, Forney ISD has seen remarkable achievements, including the development of Opportunity Central (The OC), a unique Career, College, and Community center. The OC offers extensive opportunities for students and community members, positioning Forney ISD as a national model for public education.
"Dr. Terry's innovative ideas and commitment to excellence have not only transformed Forney ISD but have also influenced educational practices across Texas,” shared Dr. Gordon Taylor, Region 10 Executive Director. “His vision and dedication to student success are exemplary, and we are proud to call him our Region 10 Superintendent of the Year.”
Dr. Terry’s influence extends beyond Forney ISD through his active advocacy for public education at the state level. He frequently testifies in Austin, sharing his innovative ideas and experiences to shape educational policies that benefit all Texas districts. His dedication to improving public education is evident in his efforts to collaborate with educational peers and policymakers, ensuring that the needs and voices of students, teachers, and communities are heard and addressed. Dr. Terry's advocacy work exemplifies his commitment to advancing public education and fostering a supportive environment for learning statewide.
In addition to his appointments on the Texas Teacher Vacancy Task Force and the Industry Based Certifications Committee, he was named a 2022 National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) Superintendent to Watch.
Dr. Terry has also excelled in fiscal management, successfully passing two large school bonds and a VATRE, leading to significant cost savings and enhanced educational facilities.
"Dr. Terry’s visionary leadership has united our community and transformed our district. We are proud of his achievements and grateful for his dedication," Pharris said.
The Texas Superintendent of the Year (SOTY) award program is hosted by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB). Since 1984, the SOTY program has recognized exemplary superintendents for excellence and achievement in educational leadership.
The state committee will interview all regional winners in late August and select five state finalists. The Superintendent of the Year will be announced at the 2024 TASA/TASB Convention.
With over 23 years in education, Dr. Terry received his Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and Kinesiology from East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas and he earned his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Study from the University of Texas in Arlington. He earned his Doctorate of Education from Texas A&M Commerce in Commerce, Texas. He has a Texas Superintendent Certification, a Texas Principal Certification, a Texas Teacher’s Certification in Mathematics, an Instructional Leadership Development Certification and a certification in the Professional Development and Appraisal System and the Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System.
For more information about the Forney Independent School District, contact the Forney ISD Communications Department at info@edu.forneyisd.net or by phone at 469-762-4100.