Ashley reflects on career in education

Bobby Ashley, superintendent of Blytheville School District, recently announced his plans to retire. He and his wife, Karen, will be moving to their retirement home in Greenbrier. Ashley, a Mississippi County native, was raised in Dyess, the youngest of 11 siblings. He was among the fifth graduating class of Rivercrest High School.

After graduation from Ouachita Baptist University, he became a well-known, successful girls basketball coach with a couple of NEA Tournament titles and a state championship in the late 1980s.

The time he spent coaching, starting in 1982, was more than just the game, it was the friends he made along the way. It has been an amazing journey for Ashley.

“I had the honor of coaching some very good players and made lifelong friendships,” Ashley said.

He coached at Tyronza, Lepanto, Turrell and West Memphis before he decided to go into administration.

The family moved to McGehee where Ashley was principal for five years and superintendent for five years.

He also served as superintendent at Booneville HD Center for a few years.

Moving back to his roots in Mississippi County, Ashley accepted the position of principal at Blytheville High School where he served for nine years before accepting the superintendent’s position three years ago.

Ashley said the family has lost many loved ones including five brothers and sisters, his mother, his mother-in-law and other family members and the Blytheville community has been there for them.

“We came here 12 years ago looking for a home and Blytheville gave us one,” Ashley said. “We will forever have a place in our hearts for the people here.”

Ashley has a love for education and his desire was always to motivate and encourage young people.

The best advice he can give to new teachers is he knows some days are long and tiresome but stay the course and it is so well worth it.

“There is satisfaction in knowing you have made a difference in a child’s life,” he said. “I want to thank the Blytheville School District and board for giving me the opportunity to come here 12 years ago.”

Ashley said the last three years have been challenging but rewarding. Blytheville was faced with the task of a reduction in force and last year’s pandemic brought about many changes for teachers and students.

“We are coming out of it and I am glad to have been part of the solution,” Ashley said.

Ashley leaves only well wishes and high hopes for the future of Blytheville School District and the community.

Mrs. Ashley also retired with 36 years in education.

Their retirement plans include spending time with their family. They have two daughters and one granddaughter.