School Superintendent
Biography-Dr. Joshua W. Stafford
A Fulbright Recognized Servant Leader, Joyfully ensuring that Educational Experiences are Transformative, Visionary, and Empowering, for All Stakeholders.
Dr. Joshua W. Stafford is an educational leader who serves as Superintendent in Vienna, Illinois. His career is marked by a pursuit of excellence and a deep commitment to creating transformative educational experiences for his students and beyond.
Dr. Stafford’s academic qualifications are extensive and reflect his dedication to the field of education. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Murray State University. He furthered his studies at McKendree University, where he obtained a Master's degree, followed by a Specialist degree from Eastern Illinois University and, most notably, at McKendree University, a Doctoral degree.
Under Dr. Stafford's leadership, Vienna has evolved into a nationally recognized model for early college and career-connected education. The school boasts over 150 college-level dual credit hours, enabling significant numbers of students to graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate's degree while in high school. His unwavering focus on "what is best for kids" has led to the development of the “Career Connected, Life Ready” program, ensuring every student is employed, enlisted, enrolled, or pursuing entrepreneurship upon graduation.
Dr. Stafford also speaks and lectures, sharing his experience on educational and leadership topics at universities and various convenings. He actively participates in numerous state and national initiatives, including the Pathways to Prosperity Institute, Advance Illinois, and the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships, among others.
He is a founder of the Southern Illinois Future Teachers' Coalition, which is successfully ensuring that the region has a high-quality teacher pipeline. Under Dr. Stafford’s leadership, the Illinois State Board of Education has made an over $2 million investment in the program. He is also the lead on the regional Illinois Laborers High School Construction Craft Program, which is a collaborative of K12s, workforce, employers, unions, and colleges that have built a pipeline for students to transition into the trades upon high school graduation. Dr. Stafford was able to facilitate work that led to the U.S. Department of Labor investing $1.5 million in the program, which expanded access to students in other school districts. These are just two examples of numerous instances in which he has been able to facilitate broad collaboration between diverse stakeholder groups and secure significant funding.
Recognizing the paramount importance of student safety, Dr. Stafford has spearheaded comprehensive safety initiatives, including the creation of a regional Children's Cabinet, enhanced school resource officer programs, and the implementation of trauma-informed practices. Demonstrating his commitment, he became a sworn, certified law enforcement officer, built a student support services team, and has enhanced out-of-school engagement programs for students, as noted with his involvement in the national Community Schooling movement.
Dr. Stafford's commitment extends beyond his state and national involvement. He is active in international work, broadening his perspective on global education. Dr. Stafford's contributions to education were recognized with his selection as a Fulbright Leader for Global Schools. This prestigious program, under the U.S. Department of State, enables him to study exemplary education systems in countries internationally. His participation in this program is a testament to his status as a leading figure in education and his dedication to bringing global best practices to his school and community. He has taught, provided professional development, and consulted in numerous countries, including India, Haiti, Iraq, and Eswatini, with planned research in Singapore.
His prudent financial acumen has ensured that his district maintains sound financial practices while expanding educational opportunities for all students. He consults with other superintendents and boards on finance and building capacity beyond normal funding sources to enhance student outcomes sustainably.
Dr. Stafford is no stranger to policy and legislative advocacy. He is frequently called on to provide testimony before the General Assembly, the Governor’s office, advocacy boards, and various governmental agencies. He is also a frequent guest of the regional ABC, CBS, FOX, NPR, and NBC affiliates, accompanied by various other news publications.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Stafford is actively engaged in his community. He participates in numerous initiatives, serves on local boards and committees, and is involved in youth ministry at his local church.
Dr. Stafford's leadership is characterized by a pursuit of innovation, a deep commitment to student success, and a profound dedication to community. His work not only enriches the lives of students but also contributes to the advancement of education on a broader scale.