COLUMBUS, Ind. – The Community Education Coalition (CEC) has announced that it will be welcoming Dr. Jim Roberts, Superintendent of the Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC) as its new Vice President in July. The CEC said his significant contributions at BCSC, a critical partner, in advocating for equitable education align perfectly with the CEC mission.
In his new role as the VP, Dr. Roberts will continue his dedication to enhancing educational opportunities, talent retention, and economic growth in the region.
In a media release, BCSC announced that at the end of the 2023-2024 school year, Dr. Jim Roberts will retire from his current role as Superintendent of the School Corporation and continue his work in education in Columbus as Vice President of the CEC.
After serving eight years as Superintendent, Roberts said his decision came “after reflection with family and careful consideration of an opportunity to continue to serve the educational community, focusing on equitable access to early childhood, K-12, and postsecondary education possibilities.”
He continued, “These past eight years as the leader of our school corporation provided me with an opportunity to partake in an extraordinary journey. Collectively, I feel we have appropriately navigated the ever-evolving landscape of education, celebrated numerous successes, and tackled challenges with resolve. It has been a privilege to lead and collaborate with a team of exceptionally talented educators, dedicated support staff members, and committed School Board members.”
Under Dr. Roberts’ leadership, BCSC has worked with CEC stakeholders to develop and maintain acclaimed programs like iGrad and Counseling Counts at BCSC, as well as other CEC initiatives that benefit children and families in Bartholomew County from early learning to college.
Dr. Roberts brings a rich history of achievement and experience to his new role at the Community Education Coalition. Before becoming BCSC Superintendent, he served as Superintendent of the Batesville Community School Corporation for nine years and spent 23 years there as an administrator. Previous to that he taught at Hauser Jr. Sr. High School for six years.
The BCSC Superintendent has received numerous awards and recognition regarding health, wellness, and equitable access to technology. Most recently. he was honored with the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Wellness Volunteer Award, for his work with the Wellness Council of Indiana.
In part of his new leadership role at CEC, Dr. Roberts will be charged with forging robust partnerships and advancing the growth of the AirPark Columbus College Campus.
Dr. Roberts added, “I initially planned to retire as BCSC’s superintendent in 2025, but when I saw the CEC Vice President role posted, I decided to apply because it’s about being deeply rooted in our community and making a difference far beyond my time as superintendent. The BCSC and CEC partnership has done so much together to positively impact the lives of students, their families, and the community. I look forward to serving the community and including BCSC in my new role.”
