The Chesapeake School Board announced Monday, July 13, 2026, that Dr. Doug Brubaker will take over as the new superintendent of Chesapeake Public Schools, effective August 13, 2026.
Dr. Brubaker currently serves as superintendent of Texarkana Independent School District in Texas. He brings 31 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and district leader to the role, having worked in systems ranging in size from 7,000 to 57,000 students. Dr. Brubaker has spent his career building operational and academic systems that produce sustained, measurable results. The Chesapeake School Board says this work will serve the district well as it continues to build on its own record of strong student and operational performance.
“After an extensive national search with assistance from the Virginia School Boards Association, the Board is proud to welcome Dr. Doug Brubaker as the next Superintendent of Chesapeake Public Schools. Dr. Brubaker brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to this role. His proven record of improving student outcomes, engaging families and communities, and leading complex organizations made him an outstanding choice to build upon the strong foundation already established in Chesapeake,” said School Board Chairman Kim Scott.
“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Jared A. Cotton for his exceptional leadership and years of dedicated service to our students, staff, and community. As we look to the future, I am confident that Dr. Brubaker's vision, experience, and passion for public education will help Chesapeake Public Schools continue to thrive and ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed."
Dr. Brubaker holds a Ph. D. from the University of North Texas, a master’s degree in elementary education from Texas Christian University, and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Kansas. He also holds a Texas Superintendent Certification and a Virginia Division Superintendent license. He is an award-winning leader, recognized with honors including the Texarkana Area NAACP’s Benjamin Dennis President’s Award and the Alpha Phi Alpha Kappa Gamma Lambda Chapter Community Service Award, both in 2025. He is also a graduate of the Holdsworth Center’s Leadership Collaborative, a highly selective, philanthropically funded leadership development program designed to empower school districts to build their own leadership pipeline and staff retention programs.
Under his leadership in Texarkana ISD, several of the district’s highest-poverty schools posted significant, sustained academic gains. The district also significantly increased the number of high school graduates earning associate’s degrees and expanded growth of the district’s virtual academy program.
He also led the effort to pass a $189 million levy for projects including safety and security upgrades, a new Pre-K center, a college and career readiness prep elementary school, and a new high school career and technology center.
"I am deeply honored and very excited to join the Chesapeake Public Schools family. This district has a proud tradition of excellence and a deep commitment to its students,” said Dr. Brubaker. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated Board, educators, families, and community members to build on this great foundation. Together, we will empower all students to achieve their brightest futures."
Brubaker will succeed Dr. Jared A. Cotton, who has served eight years as Chesapeake’s superintendent and retires after 34 years in public education.
View the July, 13, 2026, Press Release
The superintendent search process included a National search by the Virginia School Board Association (VSBA), community feedback survey, and opportunity for public comment, reflecting the School Board’s commitment to selecting a leader who aligns with the division’s priorities and values.
About Chesapeake Public Schools
Chesapeake Public Schools is committed to providing students with a high-quality education in a safe and nurturing environment. Serving over 40,000 students, CPS is recognized for its innovative programs, dedicated educators, and strong community partnerships.