Jerbrel Bowens Named Director of Visual and Performing Arts and Student Pathways
Brighton Central School District Superintendent Dr. Kevin McGowan has announced the selection of Jerbrel Bowens as the Director of Visual and Performing Arts and Student Pathways.
In this position, Mr. Bowens will provide leadership for the continued growth, alignment, and innovation of our Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) program across grades K–12. Working collaboratively with teachers and administrators, he will support curriculum development, program evaluation, and instructional excellence while continuing our long tradition of ensuring that the arts are an essential and valued part of a well-rounded Brighton experience.
Mr. Bowens will also lead our work to strengthen student pathways across the district by partnering with educators, counselors, and administrators to create connected learning experiences from kindergarten through graduation. His responsibilities include expanding pathway opportunities, overseeing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming for grades 6–12, and providing leadership for our English as a New Language (ENL) program to ensure alignment, access, and strong support for all learners.
“Jerbrel’s experience, passion, and commitment to students make him an outstanding fit for this role,” Dr. McGowan said. “He is an outstanding person and an exceptional educator. We are excited for the leadership he will bring as we continue to expand opportunities for all students through the arts and meaningful pathways for learning and success.”
“Mr. Bowens has been an amazing assistant principal for the past two years at BHS,” Brighton High School Principal Dr. Tom Hall added. “I cannot say enough about Jerbrel’s thoughtfulness, professionalism, kindness, and integrity, always putting kids first. While we are going to miss him in the BHS Main Office, we are excited that he will continue to be a part of BHS in his new role as Director.”
As part of an intentional redesign of this position, responsibility for instructional technology will transition to Dr. Allison Rioux, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, who will oversee this work in collaboration with our technology team.
Mr. Bowens assumes this role after two exceptional years as an Assistant Principal at Brighton High School, where he has built strong relationships with students, families, and staff while helping lead several important initiatives. He successfully guided the school’s transition to all-digital Advanced Placement testing for more than 500 students, strengthened attendance systems and student supports, collaborated on strategies to address chronic absenteeism, supported countless student activities and events, facilitated collaborative teams, and played an important role in hiring outstanding staff members. Throughout it all, Jerbrel has consistently demonstrated thoughtful, student-centered leadership and a deep commitment to the Brighton community.
“Serving Brighton High School as an assistant principal has been a true honor and privilege,” Mr. Bowens said. “The relationships I've built with students, staff, and families are among the most meaningful parts of this work, and I look forward to carrying those connections with me into this new role. As a former music educator, I’m excited to combine my passion for the arts with my commitment to high-quality K–12 instruction, expanding student opportunities, and helping develop young people who are passionate, hardworking, and engaged members of our community. I am grateful for this next opportunity to serve the Brighton community and look forward to continuing this work together.”
Mr. Bowens will start his new position on July 1.