Marcus Nelson.org

Dr. A. Marcus Nelson is more than an educator...he's a leader.  And his leadership has challenged kids and changed lives for over 15 years.












A dynamic district-level administrator, he is quickly becoming a national and international spokesman for public education.  As the Superintendent/CEO of the Laredo Independent School District he supervises the instruction provided to over 25,000 students on 32 campuses including 21 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, 3 comprehensive high schools, and an exemplary Early College High School located on the campus of Texas A&M International University.  Laredo, Texas is located 150 miles southwest of San Antonio, Texas on the North bank of the Rio Grande River and is the U.S. principal port of entry into Mexico.














Prior to this position, Dr. Nelson served as the Chief Academic Officer and second-in-command for the Judson Independent School District (a suburb of San Antonio, Texas).  During his tenure at Judson ISD, Nelson established himself as a curriculum and instruction expert, a regular presenter at various national conferences on drop-out prevention, and a 'turnaround specialist' of low performing schools.  In fact, this data-driven administrator was part of the senior leadership team that was responsible for quadrupling the number of Recognized/Exemplary campuses according to the Texas Education Agency.  Over the course of his career, he has served as an elementary fifth grade teacher, high school Algebra teacher, middle school vice principal, high school assistant principal, high school principal, and Director of Secondary Schools.


















At each stage of his career, Dr. Nelson has been an agent for change and results.  As a nationally renowned former high school principal, Dr. Nelson has inspired audiences with his powerful message of positive thinking, teamwork, and self-determination. He has earned several college degrees including an undergraduate degree from Abilene Christian University and two master’s degrees and a Doctoral degree in Educational Administration from Texas A&M University – Commerce.


















Dr. Nelson believes that hard work pays off and his life proves it.  This extraordinary leader comes from an ordinary background.  And his message of personal success through public education resonates with students, parents, and educators.



















Dr. Nelson has found ways to be a leader outside the classroom as well.  While working in Austin Texas, Dr. Nelson began a stint as host of the popular teen radio talk show “TEEN SCENE – Moving Beyond Rhetoric.” The radio show aired each Saturday from 2 pm – 4 pm on KAZI 88.7 FM. Dr. Nelson has been featured in several newspapers and television news shows for his vibrant style of school leadership.  In 2006, Dr. Nelson was awarded the "Change The World" Award from Abilene Christian University.  This honor was given to 100 alumni that "quietly make a difference in small and large ways in their communities and throughout the world."  In 2009, he received the coveted Grover C. Morlan Award given annually by ACU's Department of Education and Kappa Delta Pi, the education honor society.  Recipients are alumni who have made significant contributions or improvements in the field of education.




















Dr. Nelson’s commitment to community service is evident in his work with various organizations devoted to supporting underprivileged students and their communities. While working in Austin area schools, Dr. Nelson served as a board member for the Boys and Girls Club of the Greater Austin Area and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas. In addition, he is an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., an organization dedicated to uplifting their respective chapter communities with community service that is an exemplar to other organizations. Dr. Nelson has been recognized by San Antonio, Austin, and Plano chapters of the national fraternity for his work in local elementary schools as a math tutor.



















In 2002, Dr. Nelson incorporated Beyond Rhetoric (www.marcusnelson.org), a company highlighting Dr. Nelson’s presentations, which meet the needs of a variety of groups. Presentation offerings include keynote speeches, professional development, and consulting services to an increasing number of national clients. Since 2004, Dr. Nelson has given over 200 presentations. His audiences connect with his energy, charismatic delivery, and inspirational message.