FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 2, 2026
2026 Region 7 Superintendent of the Year Announced
Kilgore, Texas – Region 7 Education Service Center is honored to announce Dr. Keri Hampton, Brownsboro ISD Superintendent of Schools, as the 2026 Regional Superintendent of the Year. This distinguished honor recognizes Dr. Hampton’s leadership, commitment to student success, and service to the Brownsboro ISD community.
Under Dr. Hampton’s leadership, Brownsboro ISD has experienced continued academic growth, expanded student opportunities, strengthened community partnerships, and enhanced district-wide collaboration through the development of a positive, student-centered culture.
“Dr. Hampton’s leadership has transformed Brownsboro ISD and positively impacted students, staff, and the entire community,” says Brownsboro ISD Board President Michele Blackmon. “Her servant leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence have established a culture focused on opportunity, innovation, and doing what is best for students.”
Among the district's notable accomplishments during her tenure are the successful passage of a $24 million bond to construct a state-of-the-art fine arts facility, expand Career and Technical Education instructional space, and improve district facilities. Dr. Hampton also implemented the Teacher Incentive Allotment program to reward high-performing teachers and expanded student mental health services through community partnerships. In addition, she developed innovative programs such as the district’s Grow Your Own initiative and Teacher Leadership Academy to strengthen staff development and retention.
Dr. Hampton has also prioritized strategic planning and future-ready learning opportunities for students through district-wide collaboration focused on teaching and learning, community partnerships, finance and facilities, and human resources. Her leadership has helped Brownsboro ISD expand academic, leadership, and career-readiness opportunities for students across the district.
Sponsored by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB), the SOTY program has recognized exemplary superintendents for excellence and achievement in educational leadership since 1984. Candidates are chosen for their strong leadership skills, dedication to improving educational quality in their districts, and commitment to public involvement in education. All superintendents whose school board is an Active Member of TASB are eligible to be nominated. Local nominees are submitted to a regional selection committee, which chooses one nominee to send to the State Selection Committee.
The State Selection Committee will interview all regional winners on August 21-22 and select five state finalists. The Superintendent of the Year will be announced at the txEDCON2026 TASA | TASB Convention.
TASB is a nonprofit association established in 1949 to serve local Texas school boards. School board members are the largest group of publicly elected officials in the state. The districts they represent serve approximately 5.4 million public school students.
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