For nearly 20 years, Limestone County native Brad Lewis has helped teach and guide students throughout the county. He started his career as history teacher at the Limestone County Career Technical Center in 1998 and began his first day as executive director of curriculum and instruction for the Limestone County school system Wednesday.

Lewis said he wants to continue to improve on the school system’s current initiatives, particularly the Alabama Reading Initiative and the Alabama Math Science and Technology Initiative.

“We want to build on professional opportunities and improve on instruction in the classroom,” he said, adding Limestone County Schools is aiming to begin this year focusing more on science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

“We’re pursing professional learning opportunities for teachers so they can receive that training and we can have specific STEM classes starting in elementary and working to middle and high school.”

Lewis has spent more than just his teaching career in Limestone County — he was a graduate of Elkmont High School in 1987 before he went to college at Auburn University.

“This is home,” he said.

After his time at the CTC, Lewis went to Ardmore High School as a history teacher before becoming assistant principal for the Tigers. He has spent the last four years as principal of Johnson Elementary School.

“I’ve been blessed to work with great teachers and administrators, and I’ve learned a lot from those individuals,” he said. “Mike Owens and Tommy Hunter were principals I served under at Ardmore and they were both great mentors. I had a lot of great examples.”

Lewis said as a child, he had limited educational opportunities, so he grew up understanding the importance of education and grabbing at any opportunities that presented themselves.

“Education is important to me and my family, and I know it can change lives,” he said. “If a child has a chance to get a good education, especially in today’s job market — if they learn a skill or certification or get a degree — they can be self-sufficient, and that’s a great accomplishment.”

Plans for Johnson Elementary

Parents and students will still see Lewis around campus, as he’s splitting his time between the elementary school and central office. An interim principal will take Johnson’s place as the new school year begins, but that person hasn’t been announced yet.

“We will have everything ready to go for the first day of school,” Lewis said. “I will be there as a central office person to provide support. We’re taking the necessary steps for a smooth transition.”

Lewis said they hope to have the position permanently filled in September.