COLUMBUS, Miss. (CMSD) – Interim Columbus Municipal School District Superintendent Craig Chapman has removed that title to take on the role permanently.
Chapman accepted the CMSD Board of Trustees offer on Monday, December 15th.
With more than 20 years of education, stops at North Panola, South Panola, Gulfport, and Columbus.
He first came to CMSD as an assistant principal at Columbus High School in 2016, then worked his way up through the ranks as principal, assistant superintendent of district operations, and interim superintendent.
“I am truly honored to be the next Superintendent of the Columbus Municipal School District. This has always been a goal of mine, personally. However, my mission to ensure CMSD students receive the best possible education remains my true passion. We have a vision and a plan for the future. There are people already in place that will help this district continue to grow and thrive,” said Chapman.
With an undergraduate degree from Delta State and graduate degrees from Ole Miss and Arkansas State, Chapman is expected to complete his doctorate from Mississippi State in 2026.
During his time as assistant superintendent and interim superintendent, Chapman has overseen the passage of a $35 million bond issue, multi-million-dollar construction projects, and the restoration R.E. Hunt Intermediate School after it was devastated by a deadly tornado.
Chapman also understands the complexity of running a classroom and a school. His operations schedule increased functionality and efficiency at Columbus High, while leading students and staff through two years of COVID-19 instruction. It tested his ability to adapt and succeed.
During his time as principal (2019-2022), the graduation rate improved to 15-year high of 88.6%.
“I believe in our administrative team and their ability to lead teachers. I know how it feels to be in their shoes and have seen many of the challenges they face. We will continue to build our instruction models to ensure our students are testing well and learning the skills and concepts that will carry them the rest of their life,” said Chapman.
Chapman’s new title officially begins January 1, 2026.