Superintendent of Schools
The Superintendent of Schools, appointed by the Board Of Education, provides leadership to the educational community of the Kodiak Island Borough School District.
Dr. Dan Brigman brings more than 25 years of experience in public education leadership, having served as superintendent for the past 23 years in school districts across North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. During his 32 years in public schools, Dr. Brigman has served as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal, and district curriculum director. He has managed annual operating budgets of $45 million to $195 million, ensuring effective financial stewardship and strategic resource allocation. Most recently, he led Avery County Schools in North Carolina from January 2020 to November 2024, overseeing a PreK–12 district of approximately 2,000 students.
Throughout his career, Dr. Brigman has focused on improving student achievement, strengthening instructional systems, and expanding academic and career opportunities for students. During his tenure with Catawba County Schools, the district achieved the highest graduation rate among mid-sized districts in North Carolina for five consecutive years. Dr. Brigman was recognized as the North Carolina Region 7 Superintendent of the Year. He has presented numerous times at the national level on various topics including school safety and crisis response, early literacy, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and organizational leadership.
Dr. Brigman has successfully led school districts during some of the most challenging times in our history, including the economic crisis of 2008-2009, the COVID Pandemic, and Hurricane Helene response and relief efforts. He holds a doctoral degree (Ed.D.) in Organizational Leadership & Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University, a master’s degree (M.A.) in Instructional Leadership & Supervision from Tennessee Technological University, and an undergraduate degree from Mars Hill College with concentrations in mathematics and social studies. Dr. Brigman has been married to his wife Cindy for 32 years. Together, they share the joy of seeing their four children pursue their careers in the military, education, banking, and law enforcement.
