The North Panola schools board of trustees this week announced the appointment of  Dr. Wilner Bolden III, Ph.D. as the new district superintendent.

Bolden brings over 21 years of experience in education, including 16 years in transformative leadership roles focused on student achievement, school improvement, and systemic progress. 

Before joining North Panola School District in 2014, Dr. Bolden served as principal in both the Tunica County and Holly Springs School District.

Since arriving at North Panola, Bolden has served in a range of leadership capacities, including deputy superintendent, Federal Programs director, director of Curriculum and Instruction, personnel director, and Leadership Development coordinator. 

“Serving the students, families, and educators of North Panola is more than a job—it’s a calling. I am deeply honored and humbled to lead this district that has shaped so much of who I am. Together, we will raise the bar, close opportunity gaps, and ensure every child receives the exceptional education they deserve. I believe in our potential—and I’m all in,”  Bolden said.

Beyond K–12 education, Bolden also serves as an adjunct professor of Educational Leadership at the University of Mississippi and Arkansas State University, where he helps prepare aspiring school leaders by connecting research with real-world practice.