The Middlesboro Independent School District would like to announce the appointment of Mr. Mark Woods to the Middlesboro Board of Education. The decision was made during a special called board meeting on February 6, 2025, at 4:30 PM, marking an important step in the district’s leadership.

Mr. Woods is a dedicated and experienced leader who served with the National Park Service (NPS) in various areas. A graduate of Lander University, South Carolina, with a Bachelor of Science degree, Mr. Woods furthered his studies through Newberry College and specialized training at Clemson University, the University of California, and Texas A&M University.

Throughout his career with the National Park Service, Mr. Woods has served in various leadership capacities, demonstrating a strong commitment to conservation, public engagement, and historical preservation. His notable roles include:

•   Superintendent, Blue Ridge Parkway (NC/VA)
•   Superintendent, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park (KY, TN, VA)
•   Superintendent, Virgin Islands National Park Group, overseeing Virgin Islands National Park, Christiansted National Historic Site, Buck Island Reef National Monument, and Salt River Bay National Historical Park & Ecological Preserve
•   Superintendent, Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
•   Chief of Operations, Cumberland Island National Seashore
•   Chief Ranger, Andrew Johnson National Historic Site
•   Park Ranger, Kings Mountain National Military Park and Ninety Six National Historic Site

Additionally, Mr. Woods has contributed to broader NPS initiatives through special assignments, serving as:

•   Associate Regional Director, Resource Stewardship, Southeast Region
•   Deputy Regional Director, Southeast Region
•   Superintendent, Natchez Trace Parkway (TN, AL, MS)

Mr. Wood’s leadership and dedication have earned him several prestigious awards, in

•   1997 Director’s Award for Superintendent of the Year for Natural Resource Stewardship
•   Director’s Sustained Park Accessibility Achievement Award (2004)
•   Take Pride in America Federal Land Manager Award (2005)

Community Involvement

Beyond his professional commitments, Mr. Woods previously volunteered with organizations such as:

•   The United Way
•   Appalachian Regional Hospital Advisory Board
•   Boy Scouts of America

With a strong passion for education and student success, he brings valuable experience and insight to the board.“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the students, teachers, and families of Middlesboro,” said Mr. Woods. “My goal is to support policies that enhance educational opportunities, improve school programs, and ensure that our district continues to thrive.”

Board Chair, Teresa Brown, expressed confidence in the new board member, stating, Mr. Woods’ dedication to education and community involvement will greatly benefit our school district. We look forward to working together to achieve our district’s goals. As a member of the MISD Board of Education, Mr. Woods will help oversee district policies, budgeting, and initiatives aimed at enhancing student learning experiences.