Angela Jenkins, Director of Communications                                                         October 10, 2006
(903) 262-1064                                                                                                 For Immediate Release

News Release
TISD Mourns the Loss of Former John Tyler Principal

Tyler ISD is sad to announce that long-time TISD educator, Mrs. Joan Brooks, died Monday evening, October 9, 2006. Mrs. Brooks served as a member of the Tyler Independent School District for 27 years. Mrs. Brooks also holds the distinction of being the first and only female principal at a TISD high school.

“Tyler and TISD lost a good friend,” said Tyler ISD Superintendent David Simmons. “TISD extends its deepest sympathies to her husband, Dan, and her family. We want them to know we truly appreciate her dedication to the students and staff at John Tyler High School.”

Mrs. Brooks began her career with Tyler ISD as a typing and bookkeeping teacher at Emmett Scott Senior High School. She then continued teaching courses at John Tyler High School where she spent 25 years. Mrs. Brooks became an assistant principal at the high school in 1978. After five years in this position, she then became the principal. Mrs. Brooks served in this role for 10 years.

“Mrs. Joan Brooks was my mentor in school administration,” recalls TISD Board of Trustee member the Reverend Orenthia Mason. “A lady lofty in dignity, noble, and self respecting. I consider her a role model for finer womanhood. She was my neighbor, my supporter, my long-time friend, a Christian mother and a devoted wife. She will be truly missed by all who knew her and loved her. Tyler is a better community because Joan Brooks passed this way and touched our lives.”

Mrs. Brooks went on to serve many years on the Tyler ISD Foundation Board of Directors including the position of Board of Directors President from 1996 to 1999.

Funeral arrangements for Mrs. Brooks are pending.