Stephen Autrey wrapped up the school year Friday by sending off Nacogdoches High School’s Class of 2024.
Now, Autrey himself will be stepping down at NHS.
Autrey announced his retirement last week during a meeting with staff, bringing to a close a career in public education that dates back to 1991.
“It’s time,” Autrey said this week. “I’m grateful for this wonderful opportunity I’ve had to spend my career in public education. It’s truly been a fulfilling experience.”
During last week’s graduation ceremony, Autrey made sure the Class of 2024 heard once more his oft-repeated thoughts about being a champion.
“Always remember, think like a champion,” he said from the stage at William R. Johnson Coliseum at Stephen F. Austin State University. “Believe in yourself and all that you do. You are in control; you are the most powerful individual you will ever come across.
“Act like a champion. Always be kind, polite and respectful. And train like a champion. Pour your heart and soul into all of your goals.”
Autrey came to NISD in 2017 when he was named principal at Mike Moses Middle School after serving as a principal in Bastrop ISD near Austin. In May of 2021, Autrey was named principal at NHS.
“Stephen Autrey has been a first-rate principal at Nacogdoches High School and, before that, Mike Moses Middle School,” said NISD Superintendent Dr. Gabriel Trujillo. “Make no mistake, there’s no way a school district doesn’t feel the loss of someone of his quality and character.
“But I’m also convinced Mr. Autrey leaves in place a winning game plan for NHS moving forward. His staff and leadership team here at NHS will continue to encourage students to be champions.”
Along the way, there have been awards and recognitions for Autrey. In 2018, he was selected as Middle School Principal of the Year in Region 7 by the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals.
Autrey began his career in education as a coach and teacher.
He taught and coached in Little River-Academy ISD, his alma mater, as well as Troy, Fairfield and Kilgore before returning to Central Texas where he was head basketball coach at Bastrop High School before moving into administration with Bastrop ISD.