Owensboro, Ky. (February, 12, 2025) – OPS Superintendent, Dr. Wendy Duvall has named Chad Alward as the district’s new Chief Academic Officer. Alward will officially move into the new role effective July 1, 2025, but will work closely with current CAO Steve Bratcher to prepare for the transition.
“I was really interested in the position to bring a different perspective to how our district approaches instruction at all levels and how we are utilizing technology to effectively provide instruction to get the most out of our students,” said Alward. “There is a lot of knowledge and experience throughout the leadership in our district, including the principals in each of our schools. I look forward to working with them as our district continues a strong tradition of academic excellence.”
Alward earned his Bachelor degree from Western Kentucky University and Master of Education degree from Murray State University. He began his career as a music and band teacher at Wayland Elementary School and Ohio County High School in Hartford, Kentucky. He earned his Rank I in Educational Leadership from Western Kentucky University. In addition to his degrees, Alward also holds certifications as a Learning Coach, Teacher, and Teacher Swift Playgrounds from Apple is a Level 1 Google Certified Educator.
Alward currently serves as the district’s Director of Technology, a role he has held since July 2024. His previous roles in both Daviess and Ohio Counties have prepared him for this new position.
“In all aspects of education, we want our students to be prepared for the next stage in life,” said Alward. “My goal in this new role is to continue implementing a curriculum designated as High Quality Instructional Resources (HQIRs) supporting principals and teachers with education technology to help foster an environment that reinforces critical thinking and innovation which moves our students from consumers to producers, utilizing technology in an ever-changing world.”
In his new role, Alward will be responsible for providing oversight, support, and direction to the departments of curriculum, instruction, assessment, fine arts, digital learning, special education and technology. The position provides direct support to school-level principals and responds to academic needs as well as coaching to school leaders. Finally, Alward will work in concert with the other chief officers to implement the overall district mission and vision.
“We interviewed several highly qualified applicants for this position,” said Dr. Duvall. “Mr. Alward’s track record of success in leadership, building administration and district technology as well as his passion for innovative learning sets us on track for a successful future.”