BRADFORD — Bradford Exempted Village Schools welcomes new Superintendent Joe Hurst.
As an administrator for Graham Local School District, in Champagne County, for the past 13 years, Hurst brings a lot of experience. He has spent nine-and-one-half years of that as High School Principal and the rest of the time as Assistant Principal. Prior to that, he was an AG teacher at Northwestern School District for 12-1/2 years.
Hurst said he had taken the required classes for superintendent two years ago, through the University of Dayton, with the full intention of becoming superintendent soon. He is hoping to make a positive impact on Bradford schools.
“My hope was that I would find a small district like this to grow some roots and become part of the community and school district,” he said.
Outgoing Superintendent Ken Miller and Hurst have been working closely for a smooth transition, Hurst said.
“Mr. Miller has been great,” Hurst said. “He and I have been working all morning today and have spoken several times on the phone. He has outlined the big projects in place, and moving forward I want to pick up where he has left off.”
While Hurst is enthusiastic to start his new position, he is respectful of the culture and the success Bradford has already achieved. He said he wants to learn what is going on before making uneducated comments.
“This is a great community, and even a better school that hopefully can teach me a few things,” he said. “I want to learn a lot from the district, community, teachers and employees before jumping in, making changes and turning everything upside – down. I’ve learned to listen before speaking – that is a huge piece, and I feel I am a pretty good listener. I like making relationships and building that trust with people in the community to bridge any communication gaps to allow transparency.”
Hurst lives in Springfield with his wife Aprille. They have three sons: Nick, Nathan and Nevin. Nevin is a senior at Graham High School. Upon his graduation, the family will discuss relocating closer to Hurst’s new position. For now, Hurst said he is ready to get down to business.
“I am excited to start my new journey here at Bradford,” he said.
