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After heated public comment, board appoints Brandon Hubrens as Bristol Central principal
Summary
Following extensive public testimony for and against the superintendent’s recommendation and a roll‑call vote, the Bristol School District Board on July 8 approved the appointment of Brandon Hubrens as principal of Bristol Central High School. The decision drew sharp public reaction and several commissioners spoke about governance, process and community trust.
The Bristol School District Board voted July 8 to appoint Brandon Hubrens as principal of Bristol Central High School after extended public comment and board deliberation.
The superintendent presented the recommendation and the board discussed whether the appointment should proceed amid substantial community engagement: speakers at the public comment period cited petitions (the transcript references a petition of more than 2,100 signatures), staff and student concerns, and calls for additional transparency. Supporters of the superintendent’s recommendation and of the candidate urged the board to trust the hiring process and to prioritize proven track records and diversity in leadership.
Several community members addressed the board. Nick Jones Jr., speaking as an educator, said, "When students see themselves reflected in leaders, the impact is power," urging the board to support the superintendent’s selection. Amy Lawson, a parent and former central high parent, cautioned that improving teacher retention should not substitute for scrutiny of administrative turnover and said, "Please stop explaining these concerns away by pointing out policy, hiring authority, and procedural goals." Other speakers asked the board to pause the appointment and seek additional review.
During deliberations commissioners framed the vote as a governance responsibility. One commissioner said, "My vote today is not a judgment of any individual's character or qualifications... My vote reflects my commitment to the responsibilities and what I believe is the best interest of the district," and another announced they would vote no to signal concern about community trust.
A roll‑call vote was read aloud by board staff; multiple commissioners recorded "yes" votes while others recorded "no". The motion carried, and the board chair invited the appointee to speak. In brief remarks, Brandon Hubrens said his "first responsibility is to listen and learn" and pledged to seek input from students, staff and families as he assumed the role.
What happens next: Hubrens is to take the position per the appointment; district leadership said they will move forward with transition planning and will hear ongoing community feedback.
