Ocean Springs School District names new superintendent

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WXXV)- The OSSD Board of Trustees has named Justin Sutton the next Superintendent of Ocean Springs School District, effective July 1st. Sutton takes over for Superintendent Michael Lindsey, who is retiring after more than 34 years in education.

Sutton moves into the superintendent role after serving as OSSD’s Assistant Superintendent since July 2025. In his current position, Sutton oversees the district’s curriculum and instruction initiatives, as well as the overall academic performance of the district. After more than 13 years in school administration and 11 years with OSSD, Sutton is excited to take the helm of one of Mississippi’s highest-performing school districts.

“I’m honored to be named the next superintendent of OSSD. I’m grateful to Superintendent Mike Lindsey for the foundation he has built, and I look forward to carrying on the  momentum of high performance from him,” Sutton says. “OSSD is special because of its people—our students, teachers, support staff, leadership, families, and a supportive community that takes great pride in its schools. I’m thankful to the BOT for their trust and partnership as we continue strengthening academics, arts, and athletics in what I truly believe is the best school district in Mississippi.”

Prior to rejoining OSSD in July, Sutton served as Principal of Long Beach High School for four years, leading LBHS to becoming the #3 ranked high school in the state and a graduation rate of 97 percent. Prior to assuming the role of Principal at LBHS, Sutton served in various roles at Ocean Springs High School, including IB Coordinator and later as Assistant Principal for nine years.

Former OSHS Principal and current OSSD School Board President, Dr. Vickie Tiblier, says Sutton is a perfect fit for superintendent, and will continue to build on the success that the district has become so familiar with.

“We are thrilled to select Mr. Sutton as OSSD’s next superintendent and have no doubt that he will provide our students and staff with strong leadership and continuity during an important time for OSSD,” Tiblier says. “His experience and knowledge, paired with his leadership, will allow OSSD to continue to build on the long-standing tradition of excellence in academics, arts, and athletics.”

Sutton holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and a Master of Arts in Teaching from the Mississippi University for Women, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Mississippi State University. He and his wife Katy, an Ocean Springs High School graduate, have three children: Benjamin, a student at Ocean Springs High School and two future Greyhounds, Elijah and Ella.