Fort Wayne Born and Raised-Brandon White

By Tabitha Ervin
Editorial Director

Brandon White proud son of Sharon and the late Jerry T. White who attended Snider High School, is the new superintendent of the Cary School District 26 in Northern Illinois following the district's school board vote recently.

So far in Brandon’s career, he has been a Principal in Fort Wayne at Study and Haley Elementary Schools, an Elementary teacher at Croninger and an Asst. Superintendent in South Bend.  Previously, he and his father, Jerry White, were Principals at Haley.  Brandon is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha and he is married and has two children.

“Brandon’s contributions to our district are immeasurable,” said SBCSC Superintendent Dr. C. Todd Cummings. “His departure is bittersweet, but I am certain that his skills and character will be a tremendous asset to the community of Cary."

White will begin his role with Cary public schools on July 1 of 2023.

Ervin: What does this new position mean to you?

White: It is surreal at the moment.  Being a leader is something I find quite humbling.  The work of supporting and leading others as they support their community is amazing work.  The role of superintendent is one that I necessarily did not strive for until a few years ago, but is something now that I realize is more than just about me.  I am moving to an area where having a Black male as an educational leader is new, but welcomed. I will have the opportunity to not only continue the amazing work already occurring in Cary District 26, but also be an example for others who aspire to be a leader in the field of education.

Ervin: Did you always want to be a superintendent?

White: No, not at all.  When I went off to undergrad at Purdue University, I tried to get away from education as much as possible.  However, working with children over the summer, I really changed my perspective, and decided to eventually change my major to elementary education.  Once I was in the classroom, I always had the desire to impact as many children as possible and ensure they have access to high quality instruction each and every day.  Therefore, with each new role I have taken on, my attempt is to broaden my reach to help as many children as possible meet this goal.  I believe the role of superintendent will allow me to fulfill this dream.

Ervin: Tell us about your journey to this position and any obstacles you may have faced and overcome.

White: As with any journey, I have had my share of obstacles and challenges, but I have never let those stop me from growing spiritually, personally, and professionally.  I had individuals tell me that I was not ready, or it wasn't "my time" and I needed to wait my turn. It is frustrating to not be judged on your work, but instead be limited by political agendas or personal bias.  Instead of letting others define my future, I continued to work hard and define my own path.   So here I am being able to see my dreams coming to reality.

Ervin: Lastly, what would you like to say to the city of Fort Wayne where you were born and raised.

White: First, I  want to say thank you to my parents, Jerry and Sharon White, who raised me to be the man I am.  Being able to follow in my father's footsteps and be an educator and principal within the Fort Wayne Community Schools, gave me the foundation to go where I am going.  Although I would have loved to continue to advance my career within the Fort Wayne community, that was not God's plan.  However, I will move on  to my next adventure with the love and memories from my time in Fort Wayne.

Ervin: Thank you Brandon and Godspeed! Your mother is very proud along with the community of Fort Wayne!