When Frank Warren decided to not seek another term on Collierville’s school board, Heath Hudspeth decided it was time to serve Collierville Schools in a greater capacity.

Hudspeth, who has lived in Collierville since 2005, is seeking the Position 4 seat. Collierville residents Keri Blair and Jeremy Smith are also seeking the four-year term.

Warren announced last week he would step down at the end of his term later this year.

“I have always been involved in the schools,” Hudspeth said. “Since the formation of the district, I’ve had people ask me to run.”

He planned to serve on Warren’s reelection committee, but when the sitting board member made his decision, Hudspeth realized he could further his service to the district and the Collierville community. His petition received the sufficient number of signatures, meaning he’s qualified for the Nov. 8 ballot.

Frank Warren will not seek another term on Collierville school board

“I’m passionate about Collierville Schools. I think the schools affect our neighborhoods,” Hudspeth said. “It basically makes an area why people want to live there.”

That’s why he and his wife chose the suburb when they moved to the Memphis area.

“We chose Collierville because of the community, the schools and the atmosphere. I’ve stayed here because I love it,” Hudspeth said.

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All three of his daughters have graduated from Collierville High — in 2017, 2019 and 2022 — following the formation of the suburban district. His oldest taught Spanish in the district and his wife teaches kindergarten at Bailey Station Elementary School.

Hudspeth is part of Collierville’s Rotary Club, which awards scholarships to students and recognizes dedicated teachers annually. Hudspeth was the legislative liaison during the formation of the suburban districts and served on a committee that helped determine the site for the $94 million high school.

Professionally, Hudspeth works in management for a pharmaceutical company, but he is passionate about investing in students.

“They are our future leaders,” he said. “It’s not just now. It’s the future. ... I want students to have the best life possible.”

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He also has been involved with Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Southwind High School and West Collierville Middle School. Hudspeth has served in youth ministry in some capacity for the past 26 years, and he volunteers with the student ministry at Central Church.