Caldwell County Schools

Dr. Thomas Howell joined Caldwell County Schools as Superintendent on December 1, 2025. Prior to that, he served Caldwell County Schools as Assistant Superintendent since August 2024. Dr. Howell’s 26-year career has been entirely in education. He began as an afterschool worker and substitute teacher.  Then he transitioned to an elementary school teacher, bus driver, Assistant Principal, Principal, Human Resources Director, and Assistant Superintendent. 

Dr. Howell has the following degrees from Appalachian State University: Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, Master’s Degree in School Administration, Education Specialist’s Degree in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.  

Dr. Howell is actively involved in public education.  He has served as the Region Lead for the Personnel Administrators of North Carolina for the Northwestern District.  Along with the Mentor Team, he is the recipient of the 2024-2025 Innovative Educator Excellence Award from the North Carolina School Board’s Association.  Dr. Howell is also a member of the North Carolina Association of School Administrators, Northwestern RESA, and the North Carolina School Superintendent’s Association.  

Dr. Howell is a strong advocate of public education and is working to build strong connections with students, teachers, parents, and the community.  He believes that Caldwell County Schools is a top tier school system that will continue to grow and thrive.  

Dr. Howell has been married for 25 years and has two children.

Caldwell County Schools Mission:  To provide quality instruction in a safe, caring environment.

Caldwell County Schools Vision:  Every student will graduate from high school, be globally competitive for work or postsecondary education, and be prepared for life in the 21st century.