Once again, Hamblen County Superintendent of Schools Arnold Bunch, Jr. has the support of his board of education.

Board Chair Johnny Denton announced that Bunch received a 92.83 of 100 points scored on the evaluations by each of the seven board members who participated in the evaluation, Bunch’s fourth in his term as superintendent that began in 2022.

Denton did the rare thing of putting on his glasses in public to read some of the evaluations to the board members during Tuesday’s meeting.

Denton said that when it comes down to the bottom line, Bunch is just like the Board of Education, referring the system slogan “Shaping Hamblen County’s Future One Student at a Time.”

One member expressed pleasure with Bunch’s relationship with the board.

“His weekly reports, calls, texts and messages kept us informed. He was very good about doing that,” the evaluation said. “His strengths and visions for the school system calibrate with other businesses and education leaders.”

Another expressed Bunch’s strengths as leadership, organization and worth ethic, professionalism, communication improvement. The member said that Bunch improved on public service and opportunities.

Another said that it is important that Bunch listen to employees and their concerns to ensure that all positions are made objectively.

“This will help to create positive and professional work environments throughout the district. I would like to empower district employees in their growth, listen to their ideas and giving them opportunities to take ownership and make decisions. Making fair and constant decisions across the district is a must.”

“Mr. Bunch demonstrates professional integrity and dedication in his role,” another member wrote. “Although he sometimes comes off with the district being harsh, he constantly manages the district budget responsibilities effectively by working with staff and stakeholders and is committed with the district leadership to produce a staff to produce a powerful school system.”

In business and finance, another member said that Bunch demonstrates strong oversight of district operations and facilities and financial management.

“He has constantly managed the district budget responsibly, even when difficult financial decisions must be made. His leadership requests careful attention, efficiency, planning and responsible stewardship of resources. HE always does a tremendous job with the budget,” the member said.

Bunch was humbled at the evaluation.

“I want to thank the board for the feedback,” he said. “I want to see myself as an A, I didn’t quite make that, so I’ve got some areas I’ve got to improve on. We all have areas to improve. Based on the comments, I’ll continue to work on my professionalism and communication with board members and especially the board chair. I’ll do my best to always remember that you are always board members and I’ll communicate in a professional manner.

“I’m not perfect, so I ask that you bring it to me in a timely manner so I can address it immediately.”

Bunch thanked all of the members of the school district for doing what they do well each day.

“You are the ones who do the hard work. I work for you,” Bunch said. “You are the ones who are driving us forward. The scores are a reflection of what you have accomplished. Thank each and every one of you for your support. It’s an honor and a privilege to serve as Superintendent of Hamblen County Schools.

“I’ll continue to work for all parties to improve our district. So, we’d better serve our parents, students, guardians, staff and community. Together, through working together, we will continue to shape Hamblen County’s future one student at a time.”