Callahan Middle School’s Brad Underhill steers his career in a new direction.
After a 15-year education career, the assistant principal was named the Nassau County School District’s transportation director. The Nassau County School Board unanimously approved the transition Feb. 23.
Underhill began his new role March 6, replacing David Buchanan.
The new director said his primary goal will be “getting kids to school safely.”
As part of his duties, Underhill oversees maintenance of all buses and fleet vehicles in addition to more than 120 employees, including about 100 bus drivers and aides, about 20 mechanics and office staff.
“Also, we transport a little over 6,200 students to and from school daily, countywide,” Underhill wrote via email Monday.
He was among 20 applicants from throughout the U.S. who applied for the post.
Underhill said that he brings “creativity and problem-solving” to his new job.
CMS Principal Kim Harrison has worked alongside Underhill since the 2014-15 academic year.
“We’re going to miss him,” she said. “He’s been here. He’s done a great job. He’s really been instrumental for our school.”
Harrison added, “He’s a very logical guy and a great problem-solver. I know he’s going to do great things. And he always does what’s great for kids.”
Instead of an assistant principal post, an interim dean of students will be hired to fill the gap for the school year’s remainder, according to Harrison. An assistant principal could be named prior to the upcoming school year.
Harrison plans to submit a recommendation for the interim dean for the school board’s approval. The school board will meet April 13 at Yulee Middle School at 6 p.m.