John (Skipper) Ward made Magnolia his home in 2014 when he was named Superintendent of the Magnolia School District. He began his career in education in 1997 as a fifth and sixth-grade science teacher at Horatio Elementary School in Horatio, AR. In 2000, he transferred to Winthrop Elementary School teaching the same grades and later became principal in 2003. In 2007, Horatio School District hired Mr. Ward to lead the district as their superintendent, and he remained there until coming to Magnolia in July 2014. Mr. Ward is a 1997graduate of Texas A&M and received his master's degree in 2004 in Educational Leadership from Henderson State University. In 2008 he received his superintendent certification from Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia, AR. Mr. Ward's educational philosophy has always been deeply rooted in the belief that education is enhanced and extended beyond the four walls of a classroom; additionally, it is also more than preparing students for a test. Educators must also prepare students for life.
Mr. Ward was named the 2022 AASA Arkansas Superintendent of the Year. He is active in the Magnolia community and across the state of Arkansas. He serves in the following organizations:
The United Way Board of Directors; Arkansas Activities Association – Past President; Arkansas Association of Educational Administrators – Board of Directors; Arkansas Association of School Administrators – Past President; Economics Arkansas Board Member; South Central Educational Cooperative – Board Member; and Arkansas Public School Resource Center – Advisory Board Member.
He is married to his wife Misty, and they have four children and one grandson. When asked what his favorite thing about serving as the Superintendent for Magnolia Public Schools Mr. Ward states, “Providing educational experiences that enhance their opportunities for learning outside of the classroom.”
