Monday, September 16, 2024
When Jeremy Glenn first applied for the role of superintendent at Granbury Independent School District in 2018, he never could have imagined the impact he would have on the students, staff and even the entire community.
But six years later, his tenure has left an indelible mark on Granbury ISD — transforming the district with significant academic improvements and financial stability.
As Glenn prepares to transition to his new role as superintendent at Carroll ISD, he takes a look back on all of the milestones and accomplishments from the past six years that make Granbury ISD "one of the top school districts in the metroplex," — in his book anyway.
Under Glenn’s leadership, Granbury ISD experienced a notable rise in overall test scores, a consistent reduction in the tax rate, and continued financial stability with a balanced budget.
“The accomplishment I'm most proud of was working with our school board and administrative team to recruit and retain an incredible teaching staff across the district for our students,” Glenn told the Hood County News.
He was also instrumental in renovating Brawner Elementary School; implementing a dual language academy; establishing charter education programs; starting the Early Education Academy and Little Buccaneers; and passing a VATRE (Voter Approval Tax Rate Election) to increase staff raises.
“These accolades are a testament to our outstanding leadership team, board of trustees and the Granbury community that always puts the welfare of students first,” Glenn said in a previous GISD news release.
While Glenn was instrumental in achieving several notable milestones at GISD, he also dealt with his fair share of challenges.
One of the biggest obstacles, he said, was the difficulty in passing a bond to accommodate the district’s rapid growth.
Despite strong community support and close results in recent bond elections, the district has yet to secure funding necessary for expansion.
However, Glenn said he still remains hopeful that future efforts will ultimately address the pressing need for additional educational facilities.
“The last two elections were very close and I'm confident the community will come together in the future for much needed schools in our district,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure, Glenn also explained how the challenge of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic was a particularly memorable experience in 2020. While it was a difficult year dealing with the school closures, Glenn expressed how proud he is of Granbury ISD for being one of the first school districts to re-open in the state of Texas.
As he looks ahead to his new role at Carroll ISD, Glenn offers advice to his successor on how to build on the district’s successes.
“Over the last six years, Granbury ISD has developed strong working relationships with the city of Granbury, Hood County and local civic organizations,” he explained. “My recommendation is for leadership to continue developing these partnerships in the best interest of students and the community.”
Glenn said although he is looking forward to becoming a part of Carroll ISD’s team — especially due to its rich tradition of success — he acknowledges the deep sense of loss he feels as he leaves Granbury ISD.
“We have made so many friends here and we will definitely miss those close relationships,” he said. “Additionally, I'll miss the incredible teachers, staff and students that make Granbury ISD great.”
Glenn explains his decision to leave Granbury ISD was not driven by a desire to move on but rather by the compelling career opportunity at Carroll ISD. He said he and his family carefully considered this next step and felt it was a path they were meant to follow.
“Granbury will always hold a special place in our hearts,” he said. “And we leave knowing Granbury will continue to excel.”
CITY OFFICIALS PRAISE GLENN
Glenn may have left a lasting impression on the school district, but Granbury city officials also recognized his significant contributions to the community.
During the Carroll ISD school board meeting Aug. 26, Granbury officials reflected on Glenn’s remarkable impact in the community during the meeting’s public comments.
City Manager Chris Coffman praised Glenn’s collaboration and integrity during his tenure, stating that Carroll ISD has “stolen a fantastic community leader.”
“During COVID, he (Glenn) worked with our emergency management team like you wouldn't believe and opened up school facilities. We had places for people to get inoculated that wanted it. He was working to keep the kids safe, providing disinfectant and chemicals and cleaning agents to help anywhere in the community that needed it,” Coffman said, during the meeting. “I've been in this business as a city manager for 27 years, and I've never experienced the amount of collaboration, cooperation and success that Dr. Glenn has brought to our community.”
Coffman went on to explain that Glenn is an exceptional leader whose departure is a significant loss for Granbury. He highlighted that, despite navigating numerous behind-the-scenes challenges and political tensions in the community, Glenn maintained unwavering integrity and professionalism.
“I'm just telling you, you've got a man of God here,” Coffman said. “He's got integrity that's unquestionable, and he lives above reproach … This man is high quality, top shelf, first class, and we hate to see him go, but you are truly blessed to have him.”
Deputy City Manager Michael Ross echoed Coffman’s praise, noting his close involvement with Glenn through their work in the Rotary Club of Granbury.
“I couldn’t agree more. He’s one in a million,” Ross said. “He is certainly one of the leaders of our community. Dr. Glenn walks the talk, and there’s no doubt about that. We’re going to miss him so much, but you’re getting a very good individual.”
As Glenn prepares to take his talents to a new school district, Granbury ISD bids him farewell with a heavy heart — knowing his legacy of excellence and leadership will undoubtedly make a significant impact at Carroll ISD.
