For nearly five decades, Andrew Tolbert has dedicated his life to shaping young minds, leading schools and giving back to the communities he loves. His journey — from a small-town band teacher to superintendent and state leader — is one rooted in service, mentorship and an unwavering belief in the power of education.
Tolbert graduated from Crossett High School in May 1970 and went on to earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in instrumental music from Henderson State University. In the fall of 1974, he came to Warren to work as a band teacher under the legendary Curry and Mary Lou Martin, eventually becoming band director during his 10-year tenure.
While in Warren, Tolbert obtained his administrative certification from Arkansas State University, opening a new chapter in his career. In 1983, he accepted a position as assistant high school principal in Newport under Dr. Steve Castleberry. Four years later, he returned to Warren High School as principal, a role he held until 1992.
That year, Tolbert began working in the Pine Bluff School District, first as principal and later as assistant superintendent. His leadership eventually brought him back home again — in 2000, he became superintendent of the Warren School District, serving until 2013.
Afterward, Tolbert joined the Arkansas Department of Education’s Office of Intensive Support, where he served as state superintendent. There, he worked with struggling school systems across the state to help restore them to local control. He retired officially in 2019, closing a remarkable career of service that spanned more than 45 years.
Tolbert credits several mentors for influencing his path. Among them were C.T. Foster of Crossett, who inspired him to pursue music; Thomas C. Brunson; and Dr. Castleberry, who encouraged him toward school administration.
Even in retirement, Tolbert remains deeply involved in his community. He serves on the Warren Water Commission, the Bradley County Medical Center Hospital Foundation, the Bradley County Historical Museum board and is a member of the Warren Rotary Club. He is also active in the Grand Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, through which he helps organize community outreach projects that provide backpacks to local students, donations to food pantries, bicycles for children at Christmas and luncheons for teachers in the spring.
In 2018, Tolbert and three other retired superintendents founded the “AGRT” scholarship, awarded annually to a graduating Warren High School senior. The scholarship supports students who may not otherwise have the means to further their education — a cause Tolbert holds close to his heart.
Tolbert said his greatest accomplishment has been the ability to influence lives across generations — from teaching band students to later seeing them as parents and professionals.
“Through band, I was able to touch more lives in an intimate way,” Tolbert said. “Coming back as principal and superintendent, I got to see some of those same kids full circle as adults. Now, being able to help provide scholarships for students is a blessing.”
Reflecting on his long career, Tolbert said the most rewarding part has been witnessing the success of the students who once sat in his classrooms and offices.
“I would tell the students, ‘When you grow up and have kids, I hope they have a principal like me — because I care about you,’ even when they thought I was getting on to them,” he said with a smile.
Outside of education, Tolbert enjoys reading, traveling — with Aruba ranking as his favorite destination — and spending time with his four grandchildren.
When asked what he loves most about Bradley County, Tolbert said it’s the people and the peace.
“I’ve lived here around forty years now,” he said. “It’s home for me. I love the slow and easy lifestyle, the small-town feel, and that you can have a real relationship with people. It’s close to family, it’s quiet, and it’s where I belong.”
