Following a special called meeting of the Southside School District Board of Education on Monday evening, May 18, Superintendent Dion Stevens announced his retirement effective at the conclusion of the 2026-2027 school year.
Mr. Stevens has served as superintendent since 2021, leading the district through a period of continued growth, academic achievement, and major facility expansion projects across every Southside campus. During his tenure, the district completed significant improvements designed to support students and staff for years to come, including the development of the district’s state-of-the-art sports arena as well as expansion projects at both the junior high and high school campuses. Under his leadership, the district has remained focused on student success while continuing to expand opportunities in academics, athletics, fine arts, and career readiness.
The Board of Education also announced the selection of Jimmy Hodges as Superintendent-Elect for the Southside School District beginning with the 2026-2027 school year.
Mr. Hodges currently serves as principal of Southside Charter High School and is completing his 20th year in education and his 10th year with the Southside School District. During his time at Southside, he has served as junior high boys basketball coach, career development teacher, middle school assistant principal, and has just completed his sixth year as principal of Southside Charter High School. Throughout his career, Mr. Hodges has been recognized for his leadership and commitment to empowering all students and staff to fulfill their potential in a safe and caring environment.
To help preserve continuity and maintain the district’s forward momentum, Mr. Hodges will transition to the central administration office during the 2026-2027 school year to work alongside Mr. Stevens in preparation for assuming superintendent responsibilities.
The district will begin the process of selecting the next principal for Southside Charter High School by first considering internal prospective candidates before expanding the search to external applicants.
Members of the Board expressed appreciation for Mr. Stevens’ years of leadership and expressed confidence in the district’s future under Mr. Hodges’ leadership.
“Southside has a strong tradition of excellence, and this transition plan allows us to continue building on that success while ensuring stability for our students, staff, and community,” the Board stated.
Additional information regarding the high school principal search process will be announced at a later date.