Copeland Said He Considered State Position For Awhile

Van Buren County Director of Schools Jared Copeland said he will start his position with the Tennessee Department of Education February 10.

Copeland said he and the Department of Education had been in talks about the position before being offered. Copeland said he will be serving as the District Technology Engagement Manager.

“Essentially I will be a liaison between the districts and the state regarding technology needs, cybersecurity, and data platforms and things like that,” Copeland said.

Board Member Barry Austin said when Copeland was first hired there were questions about how long Copeland would stay. Austin said though Copeland’s stint as director only lasted a couple of years the board took a chance on a young guy and it paid off.

“I really think Jared’s done a good job over the past two years with the Van Buren County School System,” Austin said. “He’s well thought out. I wish he wasn’t going that’s why we hired him, but I do wish him the best in his future endeavors with the state.”

Copeland said he had highly considered the position for some time.

“Just like anything it began with conversations and kind of grew from there,” Copeland said. “I had made a decision over Christmas break and told my board last Friday that we have to move in this direction now so it’s a bittersweet feeling. I’m very excited about my new role but also know that this is my home and this is my family and I love these people and this school system.”

Copeland said he is thankful for the board taking a chance on him as he knows he was young for the position.