Profile Picture

Jason Griffith Ed.D., CSML

Educational Leader | Business Owner

Experience

PUBLIC SCHOOL

Chief Information Officer and Director of Federal Programs, Bath County Schools

Owingsville, KY July 2024 to Present

Led comprehensive technology operations for over 3,000 devices while administering complex network infrastructure including WAN, LAN, telephony, and wireless systems throughout the district. Managed critical federal funding initiatives including E-Rate program administration, USAC/USF coordination, and Title I/II/IV oversight, serving as primary liaison for KETS contracts and maintaining responsibility for all technology budgets, RFPs, and procurement processes. Architected robust cybersecurity protocols and administered enterprise systems including Azure, Active Directory, Google Admin Console, and comprehensive identity management solutions. Delivered significant cost savings through strategic initiatives including VOIP implementation (50% telecommunications cost reduction) and competitive bidding processes (15% printing cost reduction) while securing $30,000 in grant funding. Assisted the Director of Pupil Personnel (DPP) with key responsibilities related to student attendance, enrollment, and compliance during her three month maternity leave. Coordinated district-wide digital learning programs and maintained compliance with federal reporting requirements, including being the district point of contact on a KDE Federal Programs Progress Monitoring initiative, demonstrating executive leadership capabilities as a finalist for Superintendent positions at two school districts.

Assistant Principal, Bath County High School

Owingsville, KY July 2022 to June 2024

Played instrumental role in transforming school performance, helping lead Bath County High School from an "orange" rating to "green" status on the Kentucky Department of Education School Report Card within one academic year while contributing to achieving a remarkable 98.6% graduation rate. Served as 504 Chair and ARC Chair, overseeing comprehensive student accommodation processes, special education evaluations, and IEP implementations while chairing PBIS program and implementing data-driven approaches to address behavioral concerns. Functioned as School Safety Coordinator, maintaining consistent compliance with state safety inspections, leading Emergency Management Team initiatives, and directing all emergency drills in coordination with EMS teams and the Kentucky Center for Safe Schools. Coordinated comprehensive professional development programs and conducted systematic staff observations and evaluations while leading Professional Learning Community teams in implementing Teacher Clarity and Hattie Strategies. Contributed to educational policy development through service on the Kentucky Association of School Administrators Legislative Advisory Team and participation on the Kentucky Department of Education Tribunal Team.

Teacher and Director of Bands, Letcher County Schools

Whitesburg, KY July 2006 to June 2024

Directed an extensive instrumental music program encompassing Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Marching Band, Pep Band, Jazz Band, and Elementary Band programs while teaching drama and dance components of Arts and Humanities curriculum, building and sustaining a thriving program serving more than 500 students. Demonstrated exceptional resource acquisition capabilities, securing over $300,000 in grant funding through eight successful VH1 Save the Music grants and one Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation award while managing annual budget of $17,000 and raising an additional $35,000 annually. Successfully supervised four assistant instructors and dozens of parent volunteers while developing comprehensive media outreach strategies and building strong community stakeholder relationships. Organized and executed large-scale educational events including the annual Letcher County Marching Invitational hosting 12-16 regional schools and coordinated District 9 Solo and Ensemble festivals serving all district high schools and middle schools. Demonstrated exceptional operational versatility by personally managing transportation logistics including van and school bus operation while coordinating all aspects of student performance preparation from auditions through competition execution.

Teacher and Director of Bands, East Knox Local Schools

Howard, OH July 2001 to June 2006

Served as head director of comprehensive music program including Concert Band, Marching Band, Pep Band, Jazz Band, and Elementary Bands while teaching middle school History of Music and supervising one assistant, two instructors, and dozens of parent volunteers. Appointed by Governor Bob Taft as the Arts Teacher for the State of Ohio (2002-2004), providing policy recommendations to Representative Hartnett that became Senate Bill 2 in 2003. Led curriculum development initiatives, aligning coursework with new standards while participating in Baldrige assessment processes to improve academic achievement and serving as team leader for the school board bond campaign for a new middle school. Managed comprehensive program operations including budget maintenance, creative fundraising, monthly print/digital communications, and coordination of all performances, auditions, competitions, and honor groups while advocating for teacher rights through union collaboration on statewide GAO/WEP legislation.

Teacher and Director of Bands, Morgan Local Schools

McConnelsville, OH July 1994 to June 1999

Directed comprehensive music program encompassing Concert Band, Marching Band, Pep Band, Jazz Band, and Elementary Bands while supervising one instructor, two booster-paid instructors, and several parent volunteers to ensure program excellence across all performance levels. Managed program budget and developed innovative fundraising initiatives to support equipment, travel, and performance opportunities while contributing to tri-county arts curriculum alignment efforts. Created monthly print and digital media communications to promote program activities and maintain community engagement while organizing all performances, auditions, competitions, and honor group selections. Demonstrated leadership in multi-level music education by coordinating elementary through high school programs and fostering collaborative relationships with staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders.

Higher Education

Adjunct Professor, Union Commonwealth University

Barbourville, KY July 2011 to December 2013

Taught graduate-level courses in Research Methods, School Law, Curriculum Development, Teacher Leader Development, Leadership Practicum, and Organizational Development for students pursuing Master of Education and Rank 1 certification in Kentucky. Engaged in ongoing educational research initiatives while actively participating in student recruitment efforts to support program growth and sustainability. Contributed to institutional quality improvement through participation in the Quality Matters initiative, ensuring course design and delivery met rigorous educational standards. Provided advanced instruction and mentorship to education professionals seeking leadership credentials and enhanced pedagogical expertise.

Adjunct Professor, Mount Vernon Nazarene University

Mt. Vernon, OH January 2005 to June 2006

Provided specialized instruction in Applied Trombone, Tuba, and Euphonium to undergraduate students, developing individual performance skills and musical artistry through personalized one-on-one lessons. Designed and implemented comprehensive curriculum addressing technical proficiency, musical interpretation, and performance preparation for students at varying skill levels. Mentored students in solo and ensemble performance opportunities while fostering appreciation for brass instrument repertoire and musical excellence. Contributed to the college's music program by maintaining high standards of instruction and supporting student achievement in brass performance studies.

Adjunct Professor, Kenyon College

Gambier, OH July 2004 to June 2006

rovided specialized instruction in Applied Trombone, Tuba, and Euphonium to undergraduate students, developing individual performance skills and musical artistry through personalized one-on-one lessons. Designed and implemented comprehensive curriculum addressing technical proficiency, musical interpretation, and performance preparation for students at varying skill levels. Mentored students in solo and ensemble performance opportunities while fostering appreciation for brass instrument repertoire and musical excellence. Contributed to the college's music program by maintaining high standards of instruction and supporting student achievement in brass performance studies.

Graduate Assistant, Ohio University

Athens, OH July 1999 to June 2001

Provided undergraduate instruction in music theory, delivering foundational coursework in harmonic analysis, composition, and theoretical concepts while offering specialized applied euphonium lessons to develop individual performance skills. Served as Concert Band Librarian, managing comprehensive music library operations including cataloging repertoire, preparing performance materials through copying and distribution, and maintaining organized collection systems. Supported the music department's academic mission by balancing teaching responsibilities with administrative duties, ensuring efficient program operations and student success. Gained valuable pedagogical experience while contributing to the university's music education objectives through direct instruction and behind-the-scenes program support.

PUBLIC SECTOR

CEO and Founder, URLPDQ

Richmond, KY October 2024 to Present

As the CEO/Founder of URLPDQ, LLC, I drive the vision and strategy for our multifaceted digital platform. I lead the development of our diverse digital tools, from our popular link shortener to coding specialized calculator software for school districts navigating complex nickel and millage taxes. In parallel, I curate our extensive content library, guiding the creation of hundreds of articles on business, investment, and finance. My goal is to empower our users with both practical tools and expert knowledge, solidifying URLPDQ's position as a vital resource in the digital space.

Founder and Director, Pine Mountain Wind Symphony

Richmond, KY January 2021 to Present

Founded and directed the Pine Mountain Wind Symphony, establishing a community ensemble that provided high-quality musical performance opportunities for regional musicians and cultural enrichment for local audiences. Developed comprehensive organizational structure including recruitment strategies, rehearsal schedules, and performance programming while managing all administrative aspects of ensemble operations. Created sustainable community partnerships and funding mechanisms to support ongoing operations, equipment needs, and venue arrangements for regular concerts and special events. Demonstrated entrepreneurial leadership in arts development by building a lasting musical institution that enhanced the cultural landscape of the region while providing continued opportunities for musical excellence and community engagement.

CEO and Owner, PL8PIC, LLC.

Whitesburg, KY September 2012 to December 2022

Founded and led PL8PIC LLC as Chief Executive Officer, establishing comprehensive technology strategy and positioning the company as an industry leader through proactive adoption of emerging technologies in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and mobile application development. Directed end-to-end product lifecycle management for the flagship mobile application and integrated software solutions while leading cross-functional engineering and development teams to create scalable, secure products using agile methodologies. Architected comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks and established industry-leading data governance practices while ensuring full compliance with applicable regulations and privacy laws. Built and managed high-performance teams of IT professionals and software developers, cultivating strategic partnerships with technology vendors and leading contract negotiations to optimize operational efficiency. Served as primary technical advisor to executive leadership and stakeholders while representing the company at industry conferences as a thought leader in mobile technology and artificial intelligence applications.

Trustee, Howard Township, Ohio

Howard, OH January 2003 to June 2006

Served as elected Township Trustee and Board Chairman (2005-2006), presiding over annual township budget of $987,000 while securing critical disaster relief funding through a $640,000 FEMA grant written in 2004 for tornado recovery efforts. Led infrastructure development initiatives including new sidewalk construction through innovative nickel footage tax revenue implementation while serving on the Eastern Knox Junior Volunteer Fire Department Board and managing contracted services. Conducted comprehensive township employee evaluations and provided strategic budget recommendations while ensuring proper accounting for services funded through secured grants. Demonstrated regional leadership through selection to the Knox County Regional Planning Commission and Knox County Americorps disaster assistance team, contributing to broader community development and emergency preparedness initiatives.

VOLUNTEER WORK

Lay Minister, Junior Warden, Vestry, All Saints Episcopal Church

Norton, VA July 2014 to July 2022

As a Vestry Member, I served on the parish’s governing board, providing strategic direction and fiduciary oversight for the church's budget and mission. As a Lay Minister, I directly supported worship and pastoral functions. This involved leading the service and delivering the homile, leading prayers, and providing pastoral care to fellow parishioners, blending spiritual leadership with operational and financial stewardship.

Lay Minister, Music Minister, Men's Study Leader Whitesburg United Methodist Church

Whitesburg, KY July 2006 to July 2014

Serving the Methodist Church, I held three key leadership roles. As a certified Lay Minister, I worked closely with the senior pastor to lead worship services, which included delivering sermons, assisting with sacraments, and offering pastoral prayers. My duties also extended to providing direct pastoral care and helping with community soup and sandwich services. In my capacity as Music Minister, I directed the comprehensive music program, selecting all hymns and anthems, and leading congregational singing to support the liturgical themes. Additionally, I facilitated the weekly Men's Study Group, where I selected study materials, guided discussions on scripture.

Board Member Canton Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps

Canton, OH November 2004 to October 2009

As a board member for the Canton Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps, I provided strategic governance and fiduciary oversight for one of the world's elite marching music organizations. My responsibilities included collaborating on long-range strategic planning, approving the annual budget, and actively participating in major fundraising initiatives to ensure the corps' financial health. I worked to support the corps director and professional staff, ensuring they had the resources needed for competitive success and member safety. I also served as an ambassador for the organization, advocating for its educational mission within the community and the broader drum corps activity.

Board Member Eastern Knox County Joint Fire District

Danville, OH January 2004 to June 2006

As a Board Member for the Eastern Knox County Joint Fire District, I provided governance and strategic oversight for the district's fire and emergency medical services. This key role involved financial stewardship, including approving annual budgets, authorizing major equipment purchases, and setting policy. I collaborated with fellow board members to ensure compliance with state regulations, manage personnel including the fire chief, and secure funding through tax levies to maintain operational readiness and protect our community.

Board Member Knox County Mental Health and Recovery Board

Mount Vernon, OH January 1, 2003 to December 2005

As a Board Member for the Mental Health and Recovery Board, I served as a key community volunteer providing strategic governance. My primary role involved financial and operational oversight, including approving budgets and ensuring compliance with state regulations. I helped plan, fund, and evaluate a comprehensive system of mental health and addiction services, contracting with local not-for-profit agencies to ensure high-quality, accessible care for residents of the county.

Zoning Comission Member Howard Township Zoning Commission

Howard, OH January 2002 to December 2003

As a member of the Howard Township Zoning Commission, I held a key advisory role in guiding community development. My responsibilities included initiating and reviewing proposed amendments to the township's zoning resolution, both text and maps. I reviewed plans for developments, such as Planned Unit Developments (PUDs), and held public hearings to gather resident input. Following these reviews, I provided formal recommendations to the Board of Trustees to ensure land use was consistent with the township's comprehensive plan.

Americorps Volunteer Knox County Americorps VISTA

Mount Vernon, OH November 2001 to July 2006

As an AmeriCorps volunteer in Knox County from 2001 to 2006, I was dedicated to strengthening the community and fighting poverty. I served as an AmeriCorps VISTA member, placed with the Knox County Commissioner's Office to build its long-term capacity. My work focused on developing sustainable programs, coordinating volunteers, and securing resources. I helped provide critical support to organizations addressing vital needs such as homelessness, domestic violence, or food insecurity, helping them better serve at-risk residents.

Education

DEGREES

CSML, School Management and Leadership

Harvard University, Cambridge, MA - 2024

This program provides leaders with a comprehensive understanding of effective school management strategies, focusing on organizational leadership, instructional improvement, and data-informed decision-making to foster successful learning environments.

Ed.D., Doctor of Education Leadership

Ashland University, Ashland, OH - 2009

A doctoral program designed for experienced educators aspiring to executive leadership roles. The curriculum emphasizes research, strategic planning, and the application of theory to solve complex challenges in educational systems.

M.Ed., Education Leadership

Morehead State University, Morehead, KY - 2013

This master's degree program prepares educators for principalship and other administrative positions. Coursework focuses on school law, finance, curriculum development, and instructional supervision to cultivate effective school leaders.

M.M., Euphonium Performance

Ohio University, Athens, OH - 2001

A specialized master's program centered on the advanced study and performance of euphonium literature. The curriculum includes intensive private instruction, ensemble participation, and musicological research to refine artistic and technical mastery.

B.A., Music Education

West Liberty University, West Liberty, WV - 1993

This undergraduate program equips students with the pedagogical skills and musical knowledge necessary for K-12 music instruction. It combines rigorous training in music theory, history, and performance with extensive classroom field experiences.

Superintendent License

University of the Cumberlands, Williamsburg, KY - 2024

A post-master's licensure program designed to prepare experienced administrators for district-level leadership. The curriculum covers strategic planning, district finance, community relations, and board governance to meet state requirements for superintendent certification.

CERTIFICATIONS

Superintendent of Schools

Kentucky, Rank 1, Level II, Expires June 2029

Building Principal K-12

Kentucky, Rank 1, Level II, Expires June 2027

Music K-12

Kentucky, Rank 1, Expires June 2026

TRANSCRIPTS

Request Transcripts

Please provide a request via email and I will provide a private link to the transcripts. If original copies are required, please let me know.

Portfolio

A collection of professional recognitions, research, presentations, publications, and fiduciary skills.

HONORS

Kentucky Commonwealth Ambassador

Kentucky Secretary of State, Michael Adams - 2023

Congressional Record Citation

The United States Congress, Congressman Hal Rogers - 2013

Presidential Inauguaration Performance

President of the United States, Barack Obama - 2013

Kentucky Teacher of the Year, Semi-Finalist

Ashland Inc. Kentucky Department of Education - 2010

Best Communities for Music Education

National Association of Music Merchants - 2008

Fine Arts Teacher, State of Ohio

Governor Taft's Teacher Advisory Board - 2002-2004

RESEARCH PRESENTATIONS

Griffith, J., Bowen, T, and Baber, B. (2026 March 11-13). Get Up and Move! Integrating Technology in the Physical Education Classroom

Kentucky Association of School Technology Spring Conferece, Louisville, KY

Griffith, J. (2025, December 5-6). Are Schools Ready for Wearable AI? Promise, Pitfalls, and Preparation

Winter Symposium, Kentucky School Board Association, Louisville, KY

Griffith, J. (2025, November 11-12). The Next Interface: AI Learning that Moves with Us

Kentucky Convergence Conferece, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY

Griffith, J. and Hinkle, J. (2021, March 5). Student Loan Debt Solutions for Educators

Dynamo Solutions, LLC., Online Conference, Whitesburg, KY

Griffith, J. (2019, February 16). Global Marketing Solutions for an Appalachian Startup

University of Virginia's College at Wise, International Business Symposium, Wise, VA

Griffith, J. (2019, October 17). Lessons in School Leadership, Making a Difference in Appalachia

Ohio University, College of Education, Dr. Jennifer Hinkle's Education Leadership class

Griffith, J. (2016, March 11-12). Guest Conductor/Clinician

Wise County All-County Band, Band, Big Stone Gap, VA

Griffith, J. and Brennan D. (2012, January 22). Structural Support for Building a Band Program

West Virginia Music Educators Association, Spring Conference, Morgantown, WV

Griffith, J. (2015, January 16-17). Guest Conductor/Clinician

VBODA District 7 Honor Band, Abingdon, VA

Griffith, J. (2011, April 18). CPR for the Dead Band Program

Mingo County Schools Board of Education, Meeting and Professional Development Seminars, Williamson, WV

Griffith, J. (2011, April 19).Guest Conductor/Clinician

Mingo County All-County Band, Williamson, VA

Griffith, J. (2008, November 14). Improving the Community Culture by Building a Band Program: How the Kennedy Center Noticed Us

Kentucky Arts Education Alliance, SMART! Conference, Louisville, KY

PUBLICATIONS

Griffith, J., (2025, October 15).

Breaking Even: How to Forecast Your Business's First-Year Finances, URLPDQ, Richmond, KY

Griffith, J., (2025, September 25).

Breaking Even: How to Forecast Your Business's First-Year Finances, URLPDQ, Richmond, KY

Griffith, J., (2025, August 14).

What Not to Say in an Interview: Practical Advice for Landing the Job, Prep Beats, Richmond, KY

Griffith, J., (2025, July 12).

Breaking Even: How to Forecast Your Business's First-Year Finances, URLPDQ, Richmond, KY

Griffith, J., (2025, July 11).

Surviving Burnout: Self-Care and Boundaries in Your First Year, Prep Beats, Richmond, KY

Griffith, J., (2025, May 31).

Top Blogging Tips for 2025: Boost Your Reach and Engagement Today!, URLPDQ, Richmond, KY

Griffith, J., (2023).

My Old Kentucky Home, Good-Night! [Concert Band]. J.W. Pepper

Adams, S., (2022, May 5).

I'd Protect Voters, Promote Business as Secretary of State, Courier Journal, Louisville, KY

Griffith, J., (2022, July 31).

Band Director Leaving LCC After 16 Years That Brought Many Honors, The Mountain Eagle, Whitesburg, KY

Adams, S., and Griffith, J., (2021, May 19).

W'burg Awash in the Sound of Summer Wind, The Mountain Eagle, Whitesburg, KY

Henriquez, R. (Host). (2020, January 4).

2020 General Assembly Preview (S02, E01) [Podcast]. Left in Kentucky. Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/left-in-ky/id1454179955

Lindstrom, M., (2019, May 9).

Candidate Conversations: Jason Griffith, Spectrum News, Louisville, KY

Griffith, J., (2019, May 5).

I'd Protect Voters, Promote Business as Secretary of State, Courier Journal, Louisville, KY

Shaw, R., (2019, April 15).

Candidates for Secretary of State, Primary Election, Kentucky Educational Television, Lexington, KY

Hempel, M., (2019, April 2).

Two Minute Sit-Downs: Secretary of State Candidate Jason Griffith, WBON-TV, Richmond, KY

Griffith, J, (2019, November 14).

Letcher County Teacher Kicks Off Statewide Campaign, The Mountain Eagle, Whitesburg, KY

Smith, R. (Host). (2018, April 3).

Jason Griffith talks Kentucky Teachers Strike [Podcast]. The Rick Smith Show. Podbean. https://thericksmithshow.podbean.com/

Griffith, J, (2013, January 23).

A Victory for All of Us, The Mountain Eagle, Whitesburg, KY

Griffith, J, (2012, January 11).

The Letcher County Band Has Grown to 350 Students , The Mountain Eagle, Whitesburg, KY

Johnson, B.J., (2009, September 23).

Marching Band Shines in Pound Competition, The Mountain Eagle, Whitesburg, KY

Griffith, J., (2009).

Differences among teachers' perceptions of school climate: Does support for the local teacher union make a difference?(ISBN: ISBN-978-1-1094-9424-2) [Doctoral dissertation, Ashland University]. ERIC. https://eric.ed.gov/

Griffith, J., (2007, November 7).

Letcher County Band Night, The Mountain Eagle, Whitesburg, KY

GRANTS

$15,000 Grant for Owingsville Elementary, Lu Interactive System

Kentucky Society of Technology Education - 2025

$15,000 Grant for Crossroads Elementary, Lu Interactive System

Kentucky Society of Technology Education - 2025

$42,000 Grant for Letcher County Schools

Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation - 2022

$83,000 Grants for Kingdom Come Elementary and Letcher County Central High School

VH1 Save the Music - 2008

$120,000 Grants for Neon Middle School, Whitesburg Middle School, and Letcher Elementary School

VH1 Save the Music - 2007

$121,000 Grants for Whitesburg Elementary School, Beckham Bates Elementary School, and Martha Jane Potter Elementary School

VH1 Save the Music - 2006

$646,000 Grant for Howard Township Ohio

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - 2004

Contact

I'm always to discussing new projects, creative ideas, or opportunities. Feel free to reach out!