Learn more about Harris County School District’s superintendent finalist in Q&A
Now that the search for the Harris County School District’s new superintendent has been narrowed to one finalist, it’s time to learn more about Michael Barden.
During its meeting Thursday night, the Harris County Board of Education selected Barden as the finalist to be the school system’s next superintendent, succeeding Justin Finney, who announced in October he plans to retire at the end of this school year.
Barden is executive director of technology learning and support for the Muscogee County School District. His 27 years as an educator in public schools include being principal of Blackmon Road Middle School and Shaw High School in MCSD. He also has been a teacher and a coach.
According to his LinkedIn account, Barden earned a specialist’s degree in educational leadership and administration from Albany State University, a master’s degree in educational leadership and administration from Columbus State University, a master’s degree in foundations of education from Troy University and a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from CSU.
Barden answered the following questions in an emailed interview with the Ledger-Enquirer:
What’s your reaction to being selected?
“I’m truly joyful and excited. I’m deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity. Harris County is a special place with a strong tradition of excellence in public education, and I’m humbled by the Board’s confidence in me to help lead the district forward.”
Why do you want to be Harris County’s superintendent?
“Harris County has been my home for more than two decades, and my daughters attended Harris County Schools from Pre-K through graduation, so I understand the values, expectations, and traditions that define our community and shape our schools. Harris County represents what I believe strong public education should be: a committed and caring Board of Education that sets high expectations, dedicated educators, talented students, and a community that truly supports its schools.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to work alongside an outstanding Board of Education and the talented educators, leaders, and staff who make Harris County Schools such a strong district. Together with students, families, and the broader community, I look forward to building on the district’s many strengths and continuing to move Harris County Schools toward a united, future-ready district and a leader in next generation education.”
How would you describe the leadership style Harris County can expect from you?
“I lead calmly, intentionally, and with a strong ethical foundation. My leadership style is focused on maximizing the strengths of the organization by aligning people, resources, and innovation to achieve meaningful and sustainable success.
“My approach is grounded in listening, learning, and leading together. I believe effective leadership begins with building trust and strong relationships. When people feel connected to the mission and valued for their contributions, it creates a shared vision and a strong sense of accountability.
“My goal is to foster a district where people feel empowered to excel, where talent is intentionally developed, and where leadership growth is continuous. When leaders invest in people and align their work around a shared vision, the entire system grows stronger and is positioned for long-term success.”
What will be your initial top priority as Harris County’s superintendent?
“My initial priority will be listening, learning, and leading together. I believe the first step for any superintendent is to take the time to understand the people, culture, and strengths of the district. I will focus on building strong connections and trust with the Board of Education, district leaders, teachers, staff, students, families, and the broader community.
“Harris County Schools already has a strong foundation, and my goal is to learn from the people who make this district successful while ensuring we remain aligned around a shared vision for student success. By building positive relationships and working collaboratively, we can continue strengthening what is already working and move the district toward its next level of excellence.”
What else do you want to tell the L-E’s readers?
“Harris County Schools has a strong foundation thanks to the dedication of the Board, Harris County School District’s current Superintendent, Dr. Finney, district leaders, teachers, staff, students, and the community. I’m honored for the opportunity to serve and look forward to building on that foundation so every student continues to have the opportunity to succeed. I truly believe the best days for Harris County Schools are ahead.”
