June 9, 2026
Dear Pine Bluff Community,
After much consideration, I have made the decision to resign as Superintendent of the Pine Bluff
School District, effective June 30, 2026.
Serving the students, families, staff, and community of Pine Bluff has been one of the most
meaningful experiences of my career. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead this district
through both successes and challenges, and I leave with tremendous pride in what we have
accomplished together.
Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of working alongside hardworking educators,
dedicated support staff, committed administrators, parents, and community partners who share a
common goal: providing the best possible opportunities for our students. Together, we have
faced difficult decisions, embraced change, and remained focused on building a stronger future
for Pine Bluff’s children.
I am especially proud of the progress made during my tenure. Together, we improved academic
outcomes across our schools, increased teacher licensure, strengthened the district’s financial
position, successfully passed a millage, completed construction of our new high school, which is
scheduled to open this summer, and successfully unified our high schools and junior high
schools. These accomplishments represent three years of hard work, collaboration, and an
unwavering commitment to student success.
None of this progress happened by accident. It required courage, perseverance, honest
conversations, and a willingness to make decisions that would benefit students for years to come.
While not every decision was easy or universally popular, I remain confident that every step was
taken with the best interests of students and the long-term success of the district in mind.
I want to thank the community members, parents, business leaders, faith-based organizations,
and partners who supported our schools and invested in our students. Your support,
encouragement, and belief in the potential of our young people have helped move this district
forward.
Most importantly, I want to thank the students of Pine Bluff School District. Over the past three
years, I have had the privilege of watching three graduating classes walk across the stage and
begin the next chapter of their lives. Their resilience, talent, determination, and potential have
been a constant reminder of why this work matters. To all PBSD students, my hope is that you
continue to love learning, take pride in your education, work hard, and never stop pursuing your
goals. The future of this community rests in your hands, and I have every confidence that you
will continue to make Pine Bluff proud.
As I leave, I do so with tremendous pride in what has been accomplished and optimism for what
lies ahead. The progress made over the past three years has created a foundation upon which
future leaders can continue to build. I am thankful God provided me the opportunity to serve
Pine Bluff School District and to work alongside those who remained committed to the important
work of educating children.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Barbaree
