Arlington ISD names Dr. Brett Champion as new Chief Schools Officer

In the heart of Arlington, Texas, the Board of Trustees for the Arlington Independent School District convened for a pivotal meeting on June 5, 2025. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as board members celebrated the achievements of state medalists before diving into the evening's agenda.

After a brief recess, the meeting resumed with a significant announcement: the ratification of Dr. Brett Champion as the new Chief Schools Officer. Dr. Champion, who is currently relocating from Oregon, brings over 34 years of experience in public education, including 23 years in leadership roles. His previous tenure as superintendent in Medford, Oregon, was marked by strategic planning and enhanced educational practices. The board expressed confidence that his student-centered approach and innovative vision would propel the district toward excellence.

Following this announcement, the board shifted focus to the public hearing segment of the meeting, where they discussed the Optional Flexible School Day Program (OFSDP) for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. Barry Fox, the Executive Director of Transformational Learning, presented details about the program, which allows high school students to engage in a variety of college courses during traditional and nontraditional hours. This flexibility has proven beneficial, with many students graduating with both high school diplomas and associate degrees.

The board also addressed the continuation of the OFSDP for the 2025-2026 school year, emphasizing its importance for at-risk students and those in early collegiate high schools. The program aims to provide a flexible academic schedule, accommodating students' diverse needs and enhancing their educational opportunities.

As the meeting progressed, the governance committee reported on a recent policy review, highlighting updates from the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB). This ongoing commitment to policy refinement underscores the district's dedication to maintaining high standards in governance and educational practices.

With no public speakers registered for the hearings, the board concluded the discussions and moved forward, leaving the community with a sense of optimism about the future of education in Arlington ISD. The evening's proceedings not only showcased the district's achievements but also set the stage for continued growth and innovation in the years to come.