SPRINGDALE — Former Bentonville superintendent Gary Compton will become the Springdale School District’s new assistant superintendent for support services.
Compton, 64, will succeed Ron Bradshaw, 68, who said he will retire from the position after the school year.
The assistant superintendent for support services oversees duties such as construction, maintenance, transportation and food services.
Administrators interviewed about 15 candidates before choosing Compton, said Springdale Superintendent Jim Rollins.
“I’ve had the privilege to know Dr. Compton for the last 10 years,” Rollins said. “We are extremely pleased for him to join our team.”
Compton left the Bentonville superintendent’s position in June after 10 years on the job. Compton said he was ready for new challenges.
“I was ready for some new and different things,” he said.
Compton was diagnosed with prostate cancer in March.After leaving Bentonville, he said the lack of control over his cancer made him want to tackle new challenges.
Compton is now cancerfree.
“It really had a profound eftect on me. I feel like I have a lot to offer,” Compton said. “Retirement isn’t me. I like to work. I really do.”
Taking a position with Springdale schools means Compton will not carry out his agreed role as the University of Arkansas College of Education and Health’s executive-inresidence. He was set to join the university in January.
The executive-in-residence post is usually filled by a retired or semi-retired education professional.
The college will keep the spot open until a replacement is found, said Tom Smith, dean of the college.
Compton said he will still have time to teach a class at the university.
During the spring semester, Compton said, he will work with Bradshaw to gain familiarity of Springdale schools before officially starting his new Springdale district job in July.
Arkansas, Pages 16 on 11/12/2011