HSE Schools announces three leadership changes

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Hamilton Southeastern Schools announced Wednesday the appointment of Jason Urban, who has served as the principal of Fishers High School (FHS) since 2007, as the new Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools. He brings an extensive background in educational leadership, curriculum development, and a strong commitment to student success.

During his time as principal, FHS achieved several significant milestones, including recognition as a National Model School by the International Center for Leadership in Education and being ranked among the “Best High Schools” by U.S. News & World Report, Newsweek, and The Washington Post. His leadership has helped elevate FHS to one of the most respected secondary schools in the state of Indiana.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Urban to our executive leadership team as he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will help elevate the educational opportunities HSE provides to students and families,” Superintendent Pat Mapes said. “His deep understanding of both the challenges and possibilities in secondary education makes him an invaluable asset as we continue to advance our mission.”

In his new role as Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools, Urban will work closely with building administrators to enhance academic programs and create environments where every student can thrive. He will be responsible for curriculum development, professional learning initiatives, and ensuring students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to thrive in the 21st century.

Urban shared his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “It is an honor to join a district leadership team with a visionary approach to student achievement. In this new role, I am excited to spotlight the talents of our secondary educators while maintaining our commitment to continuous improvement.”

Urban has a Bachelor of Arts in United States History from DePauw University and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Butler University. He is also a graduate of the Experiential Program for Preparing School Principals, and has received several professional accolades, most recently being named 2024 Indiana Administrator of the Year by the Indiana High School Press Association.

He will officially assume his new responsibilities on Monday, Oct. 21. In the interim, Associate Principal Kyle Goodwin will serve as Acting Principal, with Assistant Principal Chrissie Sturgill stepping into the role of Interim Associate Principal, appointments which received unanimous approval by the school board Wednesday evening.

Both Goodwin and Sturgill are deeply rooted in the FHS community, having begun their careers as educators within the school and grown into key leadership roles.

“Kyle Goodwin and Chrissie Sturgill exemplify servant leadership,” Mapes said. “They are deeply committed to academic excellence and have been instrumental in cultivating a positive and inclusive culture at Fishers High School. Their leadership will continue to enhance the experience for students and staff alike.”

Goodwin, now in his 15th year at FHS, began as an English and Business teacher. He later transitioned into administration, serving as an Assistant Principal before assuming the newly created role of Associate Principal for the 2024-25 school year.

Goodwin expressed his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, “I am truly honored and excited to serve the FHS community as Interim Principal. Fishers has been an amazing place to grow my career, and I’m grateful for this opportunity. Tiger Nation, let’s do this!”

Joining Goodwin in leadership is Chrissie Sturgill, who has been named Interim Associate Principal. Sturgill brings over 21 years of experience at FHS, where she has worked as a teacher in the Exceptional Learners department, served as department chair, academic dean, and most recently as an Assistant Principal.

“I’m excited to take on this new challenge and build on the strong foundation that Jason Urban has established,” Sturgill said. “Fishers High School’s pride, character, and traditions are what make this community so special, and I look forward to continuing to foster that spirit.”

Both Goodwin and Sturgill hold advanced degrees and are committed to providing exceptional leadership as they guide FHS into its next chapter.

They will officially begin their new roles when students return from Fall Break on Monday, Oct. 21.