Patrick Mapes is now officially the Superintendent of Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools following a unanimous board vote approving his employment contract Wednesday evening.  Also, Board President Juanita Albright announced that Dr. Matt Kegley, who served as interim superintendent since September, will be promoted to the position of Deputy Superintendent.  Dr. Kegley said at the time of Dr. Yvonne Stokes’ resignation that he would apply for the superintendent position, but was not hired by the board.

After the vote, Mapes spoke before the board and described his visits to 16 HSE District buildings the past few days, saying he was “amazed at the instruction that’s taking place.”  He described the teaching staff as very welcoming, and said interactions with students have been “fabulous.”

“I just appreciate the opportunity,” Mapes told the board.  “I see a very strong team of teachers and administrators in the district that I have met so far.”

Mapes served 7 years as superintendent at Perry Township Schools in Marion County.

Before his hiring as HSE Superintendent, Mapes was Vice President of School Academic Operations for Stride Incorporated.