Community Connect: Kevin Cotner, Bibb County Superintendent
By Savannah Logan
In this week’s Community Connect, we had the privilege of interviewing Kevin Cotner, Superintendent of Bibb County Schools. A dedicated educator with deep ties to the community, Cotner has a unique approach to leadership, prioritizing the needs of students, teachers, and the wider Bibb County community. From his early years in the classroom to his journey toward administration, Cotner’s faith, passion for education, and commitment to making a difference in young people’s lives have shaped his career. We explore his personal motivations, his leadership philosophy, and what inspires him beyond the challenges of running a school district.
What motivated you to transition from teaching to administration, and ultimately to becoming the Superintendent of Bibb County Schools?
“I had a desire to work with students after I accepted Christ and never really imagined getting out of the classroom. I received an email one day with information about joining a cohort to pursue a master’s degree in leadership. Through the process of earning my master’s, I felt led to move on to the next level and apply for jobs in administration. It was through this journey that led me to make the decision to run for Superintendent of Bibb County Schools.”
How do you approach balancing the needs of students, teachers, and the wider community in your decision-making process?
“Everyone has wants, but I believe the word ‘needs’ is the key. To be honest, we cannot address every need with the funding we currently receive so we have to do our best to prioritize our needs. Students need a safe place to learn and grow, teachers need to know they are supported and the community needs to know you are making informed decisions about what is best for each school. I believe getting out in the schools and going to events is the best way to stay in the know about what each school needs.”
What inspired you to go into education in the first place, and what were some key experiences that shaped your career?
“I’ve already mentioned above, but it really was growing in my relationship with Christ. I wasn’t the best student or person throughout my school years and there was a lot of regret in wasted opportunities. I became a substitute teacher while I was going to Shelton State and my desire to go into education grew because of the time spent in the classroom during those two years. I wanted to make an impact in young people’s lives and I decided the best way was to be with them more than just on Wednesdays and Sundays.”
How do you unwind or find balance in your life when not handling the challenges of running a school district?
“I maybe learned the hard way that balance is critical. I can say I was not prepared for the mental strain this position held. I quickly learned at some point you have to turn it off even if it is just for a few hours. I grew up like most people in Bibb County and developed a love for the outdoors. My pawpaw and uncles would take me hunting and my dad took me fishing. When I am not working or going to school events, I enjoy fishing and deer/turkey hunting to help me unwind. Those activities really allow me to get away and clear my head or take a reset. I also love going to Disney World and thankfully I have family members who love to go as well. We usually take at least one trip a year and this has really helped to get away from the office when needed.”
Are there any particular books or authors that have had an impact on your outlook, either professionally or personally?
“God’s Word has had the most impact in my life. I truly would not be here without it. Every year I look for a verse that is my motivation for the school year. This year it is ‘Tear off the roof.’ The importance of this phrase is personal and professional. The people around you matter and we all need friends who will lift us up just as the friends did for their paralyzed friend by lowering him in to Jesus. I had four surgeries and spent a month in the hospital this summer and it was my family and friends who kept encouraging me through the recovery. I also enjoy reading anything by David Platt or Matt Chandler. Lastly, I enjoy reading or listening to Simon Sinek. His approach to leadership has helped guide me the last two years.”
What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
“I’m a big Harry Potter fan. I’ve read the books three times and enjoy putting together Harry Potter Lego sets.”
Do you have a favorite TV show or movie?
“My favorite TV show is NCIS. That is the only show I watch on TV. My favorite movies are O Brother Where Art Thou, Forrest Gump, Back to the Future and the Jurassic Park series.”
If you could go see any concert, any band or artist live, who would it be?
“I’m really not much of a fan of concerts, but I guess if I could see anyone, it would be George Strait.”
What role do parents and the community play in shaping the direction of Bibb County Schools?
“Parents and the community are our biggest supporters so I believe in listening to their thoughts or concerns as long as they are genuine. Every five years, we have to develop a strategic plan and parents and community members are invited to those meetings. We also have a capital plan that projects over the next ten years. We try to involve community members in that meeting as well.”
What is your favorite meal?
“I love food and enjoy trying new foods, but my favorite meal is BBQ and mashed potatoes.”
If you could sit down to dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?
“If I could sit down with anyone, it would probably be either President George Washington, Dwight Eisenhower or Ronald Reagan.”
