On Tuesday, December 17, a special retirement reception was held at the Dr. Jim F. Chadwell Administration Building to celebrate Dr. Chadwell and his remarkable 31-year career in public education, including 14 years as Superintendent of Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD (EMS ISD). The event brought together a wide range of attendees, including family, friends, former colleagues, community leaders, and residents whose lives have bee positively impacted by Dr. Chadwell’s leadership and service. It was a heartfelt celebration of his lasting impact on the district and the broader community.
Honoring Dr. Chadwell’s Legacy
The evening began with the unveiling of the plaque renaming the district's administration building in honor of Dr. Chadwell. While the renaming had been approved by the Board of Trustees in November 2024, this was the debut of the plaque that will hang in the main lobby of the building. The moment was met with warm applause, and it served as a lasting tribute to his leadership and the many accomplishments of his tenure as superintendent.
One of the evening’s most significant moments was the announcement of support to name the newly completed Marine Creek Trail Extension in his honor. This extension, stretching north from Marine Creek Lake on land owned by the district, was made possible through a collaboration between EMS ISD and the City of Fort Worth. The trail will offer the community a scenic path while also honoring Dr. Chadwell’s commitment to trail connectivity and enhancing the quality of life for local residents. This project will stand as a lasting reminder of his contributions, benefitting the district and surrounding area for generations to come. The EMS ISD Board of Trustees will consider the recommendation to officially name the trail extension on district land in January 2025.
Words of Recognition from Community Leaders
The evening also featured tributes from local leaders who spoke of Dr. Chadwell’s enduring influence in education and his impact on the community.
City of Fort Worth Councilmembers Macy Hill, District 7, and Carlos Flores, District 2, proclaimed December 17, 2024, as Dr. Jim F. Chadwell Day in Fort Worth, acknowledging his dedication to education and his lasting impact on the city. Saginaw Mayor Todd Flippo also declared December 17, 2024, as Dr. Jim F. Chadwell Day in Saginaw, honoring his role in shaping the Saginaw community.
Tarrant County Commissioner Manny Ramirez also offered remarks, reflecting on his partnership with Dr. Chadwell, particularly in zoning and community development efforts. Commissioner Ramirez praised Dr. Chadwell for his collaborative spirit and for always prioritizing the best interests of the community. He plans to bring forward a proclamation to honor Dr. Chadwell at a future County Commissioners meeting.
Continuing the Legacy of Education
The evening also featured the announcement of the Dr. Jim and Julie Chadwell Superintendent Scholarship, which will be funded through community donations and managed through the EMS Education Foundation. This scholarship, established with personal funds by members of the 2024-2025 EMS ISD School Board, serves as a lasting way to honor Dr. Chadwell’s commitment to the growth and success of EMS ISD students, ensuring that his legacy continues to positively impact future generations.
The EMS Education Foundation also presented Dr. Chadwell with a T-Shirt quilt, created from shirts representing the various EMS ISD campuses and departments. This heartfelt gift was a meaningful way to honor the many lives Dr. Chadwell has touched throughout his career.
A Special Moment with Dr. Chadwell’s 5th Grade Teacher
A particularly moving moment came when Dr. Chadwell recognized Mrs. Zelman, his 5th-grade teacher, who was in attendance at the event. Dr. Chadwell publicly thanked her as he spoke fondly of the impact she had on his life and educational journey, emphasizing how teachers shape the futures of their students in ways that resonate throughout their lives. Mrs. Zelman’s presence at the celebration was a beautiful reminder of the transformative power of education and the lasting bond between educators and students.
A Heartfelt Reflection from Dr. Chadwell’s Family
The evening culminated with remarks from Dr. Chadwell’s son, Graeson Chadwell, who shared personal reflections on his father’s career and legacy. Graeson spoke about the deep sense of pride his family feels in Dr. Chadwell’s accomplishments, both as an educator and as a leader. He expressed gratitude for the countless lives his father has touched and emphasized how proud the entire family is of the positive impact Dr. Chadwell has had on the EMS ISD community.
Creating Lasting Memories
Throughout the evening, guests had the opportunity to enjoy hors d'oeuvres provided by EMS ISD catering and Culinary Arts students as well as sign a timeline memory book. This special book allowed attendees to add their favorite memories and heartfelt messages for Dr. Chadwell. Filled with personal tributes, photos, and well-wishes, the book will be bound to serve as a cherished keepsake, preserving the memories of Dr. Chadwell’s incredible journey in Texas public education and the many lives he has touched along the way.
A Legacy that Will Live On
Dr. Chadwell’s retirement celebration was not just a farewell – it was a testament to a career of dedicated service, visionary leadership, and lasting impact. The renaming of the administration building, the announcement of the Marine Creek Trail Extension, and the establishment of the Dr. Jim and Julie Chadwell Superintendent Scholarship will ensure that his influence continues to have a positive impact in EMS ISD and the surrounding community.
As Dr. Chadwell steps into retirement, the tributes and celebrations of December 17 served as a reminder that his legacy will endure. His commitment to education, community, and service has set a standard of excellence that will continue to guide EMS ISD long into the future.
