A Fond Farewell to Mr. Campbell

By Gloria Way

  The Winnie Stowell community came out en masse last Saturday night to show their appreciation and gratitude to East Chambers Independent School District’s newly retired superintendent Scott Campbell. Hundreds of people packed the Winnie Stowell Community Building to say “thank you” to Campbell for his 28 years of leadership at ECISD as Superintendent. Friends, family, former teachers, staff, and students traveled from out of town to

show their support for Campbell.

  Speakers included Danny Lovett – retired superintendent and former region 5 ESC director, Dr. Greg Poole – Barbers Hill ISD superintendent, Andy Evans – retired ECISD Athletic Director, Scott Jones – ECISD Board of Trustees President, and Andrea Smith – successor superintendent.

  The speeches were full of warmth and humor. A common thread in all the speeches was that Campbell was a true leader and how much he loved the school and Winnie. Poole spoke of how Campbell always fought hard for ECISD to get its “fair share” for school funding. Poole also stated that Campbell could have gone to other school districts for higher pay, but Campbell was committed to ECISD and Winnie.

  Andy Evans brought laughter and humor in his statements about Campbell. It was obvious the deep bond of friendship and mutual respect shared between the two men. Campbell embraced Evans after his speech.

  Jones presented Campbell with a beautiful ring on behalf of the ECISD community for his service. The ring is a deep green emerald encased in a yellow gold band. “Perfect colors”, said Jones.

  Smith, the new ECISD superintendent, spoke of Campbell as a friend and mentor. “I have worked beside Scott for the last four years. And the transition will be seamless. He will be around as a consultant to ensure the transition will be smooth and problem free.”

  Campbell ended the evening with a heartfelt speech. He thanked his team and the community for supporting him. Campbell strongly emphasized that he is and always will be a strong public school supporter. He stated that only public schools can arouse the entire community in terms of support and backing.

  Love, admiration, and deep respect filled the room. Scott Campbell will be missed but everyone agreed that it was now his time to relax and spend time with his wife and granddaughter.