COLUMBUS, Miss. (CMSD) - You could say Timothy Bourne and education have always had the right chemistry together. After all, it was chemistry that got his career bubbling in the classroom.
Bourne has been at the Columbus Municipal School District for a little over a month. He serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Student Services. In this role he oversees federal programs, special education, and a host of other responsibilities.
“It’s been awesome, so far. I’ve enjoyed it, loved every moment of it, and I’m just looking forward to the opportunity to positively affect more kids and adults and teachers to hopefully add my experiences to the piece of the puzzle,” said Bourne.
The youngest of three children, Bourne says an education was never a question in his home growing up. Bourne’s passion for learning started in 10th grade at Hattiesburg High School. Two teachers would show him what it means to have a love for teaching and a love for kids.
“They made a mark on me that couldn’t be erased,” said Bourne.
His first job in the classroom was at Armstrong Middle School in Starkville, Mississippi.
“I fell in love with the kids, and I knew I wanted to be at the middle school. They’re trying to find themselves. They are to find their identity at that age. I wanted to positively affect them,” said Bourne.
Bourne worked his way up through the ranks as assistant principal and principal. He was the Director of Student Assessment, Accountability, Accreditation, Discipline, and 16th Section Lands for the Starkville Oktibbeha Consolidated School District before arriving at CMSD.
“It was literally the last day that it was about to close (the position at CMSD) that pressed submit. I interviewed here with Mr. Chapman, and just through that interview process I really felt like this could be a good fit for me,” said Bourne.
Bourne’s love of chemistry led to a passion for data. He’s using that data to advance CMSD’s mission of supporting educators, improving academic outcomes for students, and monitoring challenges within the district.
“I’m a big believer in collaboration, building collaboration, and I’m focusing on results, focusing on learning. I’m just wanting to learn the system and learn people and learn what works good and to move things forward,” said Bourne.
Bourne is a pastor. He and his family live in the Golden Triangle.
