The West Memphis School District Board of Directors announces Mr. Eric Foister as incoming Superintendent of Schools. His tenure will begin December 2, 2024. Foister brings 30 years of education experience to the district and most recently served as Assistant Superintendent of Wynne School District in Wynne, Arkansas. Foister began his career in K-12 as a biology teacher and Head Basketball Boys Coach in Florida. After moving to his home state of Indiana, he continued his career teaching biology, chemistry, and serving as Head Boys Basketball Coach. In 2009, he took a series of leadership roles in Clarksville, Tennessee, including Assistant Principal and Principal. He eventually became Assistant Superintendent at Todd County Schools in Kentucky. He has served in his current position in Wynne Schools since 2021, where he helped lead the schools, students, and families through disaster recovery from the devastating tornado of March 2023.
“I am pleased to announce Mr. Eric Foister as our incoming Superintendent. His experience aligns with the District’s needs, and it is evident he is prepared to collaborate with community stakeholders and build a culture of academic and operational excellence” stated Dr. Kimberly Wolfe, West Memphis School District Board President. “Additionally, I look forward to working with Mr. Foister as the Board of Directors remains focused on the five priority areas as outlined in the District’s community-informed strategic plan, which was spearheaded by our previous superintendent, Dr. Terrence A. Brown, who left a strong legacy that we will build on for years to come. As Mr. Foister transitions, he inherits invaluable support from Interim Superintendent Mr. Wille Harris who has provided excellent leadership during a critical time.”
“My vision for West Memphis School District is to build a dynamic and inclusive educational community where every student has equal opportunities for success. Our commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration among teachers, administrators, and staff ensures that each member of the West Memphis School District Family feels valued and supported,” stated Eric Foister. “Together, we will focus on student success by striving for continuous growth and embracing innovation while utilizing best practices that uplift our diverse student body. We will celebrate each achievement, big and small, creating a nurturing environment where every student’s potential is realized. By empowering our team and embracing inclusivity, we are building a brighter future for all students in West Memphis.”
Mr. Foister holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Ball State University, a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Oakland City University, and an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Austin Peay State University. He is the recipient of Teacher of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and Coach of the Year awards and was a member of the administrative team at Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools when the district achieved recognition as one of the highest performing districts in Tennessee.
Mr. Foister is the successor of Dr. Terrence A. Brown, who passed in May 2024, and longtime WMSD leader, Mr. Willie Harris, who has been serving as interim Superintendent.