Bryan Auxier began his tenure as Paintsville Independent superintendent on Oct. 1. Photo courtesy Bryan Auxier
(PAINTSVILLE, KY) – Bryan Auxier’s role as superintendent of Paintsville Independent Schools marks a significant milestone in a career deeply rooted in the district he will now lead. His connection to Paintsville spans decades, beginning as a student in 1977 and continuing through a variety of roles he has held professionally since 1996.
Auxier’s career in education began with teaching computer classes to 7th and 8th graders while also working as a kindergarten instructional assistant. Over the years, he served in a range of positions, including elementary school teacher, high school principal and Head Start director. Each of these roles provided him with valuable insight into the needs of students, staff, and the community.
Auxier’s decision to pursue a career in education was shaped by early experiences and positive influences within the school system. He discovered his own interest in working with children and helping them learn. Auxier said his decision to move into administration was also influenced by practical considerations, including financial stability.
“Coach Williams was the superintendent and Mrs. Pitto was the principal, and they gave me a job back in 1996. They both mentored me along the way,” said Auxier.
Throughout his journey, Auxier said he has been supported by several mentors who helped guide his professional development.
Auxier said his approach to leadership has been shaped by the diversity of roles he has held within the district. This broad experience allowed him to develop a well-rounded perspective on how schools operate, and what is required to lead them successfully. The transition from teacher to administrator helped him recognize the wider responsibilities involved in education, from instructional leadership, school safety and facility management.
“I’ve been the principal at these schools, and I think just doing a lot of different roles over the years has given me a unique perspective about the things that are important to our school and our community,” said Auxier.
As superintendent, Auxier plans to focus on continuing academic excellence, while keeping small class sizes to support student success and ensuring that school facilities remain modern and well-equipped.
“My vision is just to be excellent in whatever we’re doing. We want to keep improving and getting better and so I think it’s just the mindset of we want to keep trying to be excellent at what we do in search of excellence,” said Auxier.
Auxier views the role of superintendent as not only a leadership position within the school district, but also a position of advocacy for the broader community. He believes in promoting the district’s strengths while addressing its evolving needs, with a goal of fostering a strong and supportive educational environment.
“As superintendent, I’m an ambassador for this community. I know our strengths and weaknesses. As an ambassador, we try to make this as strong of a community as we can,” said Auxier.
To educators hoping to advance into leadership roles, Auxier said it is important to master your current responsibilities. He believes that excellence at every level is what prepares individuals for greater opportunities and enables them to understand the needs of others within the school system. Auxier said that he believes that the best principals were first the best teachers.
“I think if you consciously pay attention to where you are and you try to be the very best you can be, if it’s a teacher, if it’s an instructional aide be the very best you,” Auxier said.
As he looks ahead, Auxier said he hopes to leave a legacy defined by care, presence, and support. He wants to be remembered as a leader who made a difference in the lives of students and staff, and who worked diligently to support their success.
“I hope they remember that I was around. I hope they remember I’m on their side,” Auxier said.
Not only is Auxier an alumnus of Paintsville Independent schools but his three children are alumni as well. Auxier’s wife, Libby Auxier, also works within the school system as an elementary family resource center coordinator.
“This is my community. I know almost all the kids in our district by name. I’m blue and white to the core,” said Auxier.
Auxier began serving as superintendent on Oct. 1.
Leave A Comment