JPS Names Jeremy Patterson as New Superintendent

(May 6, 2025 8:25 PM ET) The Jackson Public School Board of Education tonight announced the appointment of Jeremy Patterson as the district’s next Superintendent. The decision was made during a Special Meeting of the Board, with Mr. Patterson set to begin his new role on July 1, 2025.

Patterson will succeed Jeff Beal, retiring after 11 years as Superintendent at the end of the current school year.

An alumnus of Jackson High School’s Class of 1993, Mr. Patterson has dedicated over two decades of service to Jackson Public Schools. He earned a dual degree in Education and Exercise & Sport Science from Spring Arbor University, where he attended on a basketball and baseball scholarship, and later completed a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Michigan State University in 2008.

Since joining Jackson Public Schools in 1998, Mr. Patterson has demonstrated leadership and commitment in various roles, most recently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Curriculum since 2022. His previous positions include, Associate Principal, Jackson High School (2007–2012), Head Principal, Frost Elementary (2012–2015), and Principal for Instruction, Middle School at Parkside (2015–2022). Mr. Patterson has also coached Varsity Girls’ Basketball, J.V. & Varsity Boys’ Basketball, and J.V. Boys’ Baseball, reflecting his passion for mentoring youth both in and out of the classroom.

Deeply rooted in the Jackson community, Mr. Patterson and his wife, Jill, are proud parents of four children and grandparents to two. He is actively involved in several civic and professional organizations, including St. John the Evangelist Catholic Parish, the Knights of Columbus (Council #9301), and the Michigan Elementary & Middle School Principals Association, where he served as President (2017–2018). His service extends to local nonprofits such as United Way of Jackson County and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Nationally, he has contributed to the National Diversity Task Force of the National Association of Elementary School Principals.

In recognition of his service and leadership, Mr. Patterson was recently honored with the 2024 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award by Jackson College and the 2024 “Quiet Storm” Award at the 4th Annual Jackson Community Awards.

“I look forward to serving Jackson Public Schools as the next Superintendent. My experience with the district, and in K-12 education as a coach, teacher, administrator, and assistant superintendent, will be helpful in moving our programs forward for our staff, our students and our community. Great things are happening in Jackson, and I look forward to continuing to serve in this new role with JPS. The future is bright, and I’m all in!” said Mr. Patterson.

Shalanda Hunt, JPS Board President said, “We had two highly qualified candidates, making this a very difficult decision. Both performed exceptionally well in their interviews and responded thoroughly to each question.

They are truly stellar candidates. We are confident in our decision tonight. Mr. Patterson has what it takes to bring his vision to life in partnership with the Board. He brings a deep compassion for this community, and we believe his leadership will drive academic success for our students.”