DALLAS — There has been a recent rise in superintendents leaving the education industry in parts of the U.S., forcing many districts to deal with shifts in their leadership teams.
North Texas is in the middle of its own transition period. From November 2021 through February 2022, 11 superintendents from 11 local school districts announced they would be leaving, resigning or retiring from their leadership positions.
Three happened on the same day: Jan. 13, 2022.
Since March 2022, at least 8 more North Texas superintendents have also stepped down.
These 19 superintendents include:
- Keller ISD Superintendent Rick Westfall (announced June 2, 2023)
- Cleburne ISD Superintendent Kyle Heath (announced March 27, 2023)
- Kaufman ISD Superintendent Lori Blaylock (announced Feb. 13, 2023)
- Arlington ISD Superintendent Marcelo Cavazos (announced Jan. 26, 2023)
- McKinney ISD Superintendent Rick McDaniel (announced Dec. 2, 2022)
- Grapevine-Colleyville ISD Superintendent Robin Ryan (announced Sept. 23, 2022)
- Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD Superintendent John Chapman (announced Sept. 19, 2022)
- Joshua ISD Superintendent Fran Marek (announced May 26, 2022)
- Little Elm ISD Superintendent Daniel Gallagher (announced Feb. 14, 2022)
- Plano ISD Superintendent Sara Bonser (announced Jan. 26, 2022)
- Denison ISD Superintendent Henry Scott (announced Jan. 18, 2022)
- Dallas ISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa (announced Jan. 13, 2022)
- Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Kent Scribner (announced Jan. 13, 2022)
- Northwest ISD Superintendent Dr. Ryder Warren (announced Jan. 13, 2022)
- Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD Superintendent Steve Chapman (announced Dec. 14, 2021)
- Richardson ISD Superintendent Jeannie Stone (announced Dec. 13, 2021)
- Mesquite ISD Superintendent David Vroonland (announced Dec. 13, 2021)
- DeSoto ISD Superintendent D'Andre Weaver (announced Nov. 15, 2021)
- Lewisville ISD Superintendent Kevin Rogers (announced Nov. 2, 2021)
In the wake of the early announcements, several North Texas school boards met to discuss COVID policies and teacher retention issues. Some districts even asked parents to volunteer to cover classes because of extreme substitute teacher shortages.
While some superintendent positions have been filled, other districts are still looking for the right candidates.
Here is a closer look at where things stand at the moment.
Arlington ISD
Arlington Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos announced he would be stepping down on Jan. 26, 2023. Cavazos had been the district's superintendent for the past 11 years.
In a news release, the district said Cavazos will leave Aug. 31, 2023.
Cavazos has worked in public education for over 30 years, the district listed some highlights from his work: improving test scores, implementing innovative programs and initiatives and making free pre-K for all 4-year-olds.
Cavazos created the nation’s first district-wide STEM curriculum for 4-year-olds in pre-K.
Over his career Cavazos has been recognized as Superintendent of the Year in Texas, spearheading two bond issues in support of building new facilities, and fostering partnerships with colleges and sports teams, including the Dallas Cowboys.
On May 4, 2023, the district's Board of Trustees voted unanimously to name Michelle Cavazos as the single finalist to become the new superintendent for the district.
Cavazos, not related to the retiring superintendent Marcelo Cavazos, has served as the superintendent for Gregory-Portland ISD since July 2020.
On May 23, Michelle Cavazos signed a new five-year contract with Gregory-Portland ISD where she currently serves as superintendent.
Arlington ISD Board President Melody Fowler said that the search will continue.
“We understand the enormity of the position we’re trying to fill and are committed to continuing our search to identify top candidates,” Fowler said.
Fowler said board members will begin discussing the next steps in the search process. Dr. Marcelo Cavazos will continue leading the district.
Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD
On Sept. 19, 2022, Comal Independent School District, which is in New Braunfels, announced that the district's Board of Trustees named John E. Chapman III as the lone finalist in its search for a superintendent.
At the time of the announcement, Chapman was the current superintendent of Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD.
With 17 years of experience as a superintendent, Chapman had worked for Chillicothe ISD, Comfort ISD, Ennis ISD and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD.
Chapman has been named Superintendent of the Year for both Texas Education Region 13 while with Comfort ISD and Region 10 when he worked for Ennis ISD. He is a member of several professional organizations and serves in advisory roles as a mentor to administrators and educators.
Chapman earned his doctorate of education degree in educational leadership from Texas Tech University. He also got his master’s degree in education and mid-management from Wayland Baptist University. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education from McMurry University.
On Oct. 13, 2022, the Carrollton-Famers Branch ISD Board of Trustees unanimously voted to name Associate Superintendent Brian Moersch as the district’s Interim Superintendent of Schools at a special board meeting.
Moersch has more than 33 years of administrative experience in district and municipal organizations with 25 years of experience as a cabinet member.
Moersch has served as Associate Superintendent for the district since 2019. The district said he has provided direct support to the Superintendent, Operations, Human Resources, Safety and Security, and other departments.
Previously, Moersch served in Ector ISD for 12 years in various roles including Chief of Staff, Chief Business Officer, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, Executive Director of Business Operations and Chief of Police.
On Dec. 20, 2022, the Carrollton-Famers Branch ISD Board of Trustees announced it had launched a formal process to seek the next superintendent of our school district.
As part of the search process, the district said it would conduct a survey to gather input from parents, students, staff, and community members to identify the characteristics and traits of the next superintendent.
On Feb. 21, 2023, the district's board unanimously voted to name Wendy Eldredge as the new superintendent.
Eldredge has served as Crandall ISD's superintendent since 2019 and has worked in education for more than 30 years.
"Dr. Eldredge brings tremendous experience, dedication, and heart to this role," said Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD Board of Trustees President Dr. Les Black in a statement. “Our community and staff told us they wanted an educational leader who could build a trusting culture, embrace diversity, attract and retain teachers, and of course produce results for students. We are elated that we have found that educational leader in Dr. Wendy Eldredge. We cannot wait to welcome her into our learning community.”
Prior to serving Crandall ISD, Eldredge also served as assistant superintendent of safety & operations at Garland ISD, and as area director of the South Garland K-12 feeder pattern, encompassing 8,200 students at 10 campuses.
Eldredge earned a doctorate of curriculum & instruction from Texas A&M-Commerce, along with her superintendent's certificate. She also has a master's degree in educational administration from Kansas State University.
Accomplishments while serving Crandall ISD include passing a $365 million bond election in May 2022, which included a successful proposition for a new fine arts center.
Eldredge was also the first-ever president of the Dallas-area Region 10 Chapter of the Texas Council of Women School Executives, and an elected member of the Texas UIL Legislative Council.
Cleburne ISD
On March 27, 2023, the Cleburne Independent School District Board of Trustees approved an agreement between the district and Superintendent Kyle Heath on his resignation.
Cleburne ISD said Heath's resignation would go into effect on Aug. 31, 2023.
“On behalf of the entire district, the board of trustees expresses its sincere appreciation to Dr. Heath for his efforts while serving as superintendent off this great school district and its wonderful students, parents and administrators,” the district said in a press release about Heath's resignation. “And for the many achievements and accomplishments of the entire district team during Dr. Heath's tenure as superintendent.”
Before serving as superintendent in Cleburne from 2014-2023, he had previously worked at Mansfield ISD.
“A school district is measured by the commitment of the board, staff and community to its children and their achievement,” Heath said in the district's press release. “This district is indeed so committed.”
On June 28, 2023, Cleburne ISD's board named Burleson ISD Chief of Schools Coby Kirkpatrick as the lone finalist to be the next superintendent following a unanimous vote during a school board meeting.
In compliance with state law, a 21-day waiting period will now go into effect before the Trustees conduct a final vote to employ Kirkpatrick as superintendent.
“This 21-day waiting period will give our stakeholders time to learn more about Dr. Kirkpatrick, while giving him the opportunity to learn more about Cleburne schools and our community,” School Board President Elizabeth Childress said in a press release. “We believe he has the qualities, skills and strengths our staff, parents and community want in our school district leader, based on the input we received from them.”
Kirkpatrick said he counts the school board’s decision to name him a lone finalist for superintendent among his most memorable moments.
“This news ignited a level of excitement within me that I compare to the joy I felt on my wedding day, as well as the birth of my two children,” Kirkpatrick said in the district's press release. “I look forward to joining CISD’s team, where we will work together to bring student success to even greater heights.”
Kirkpatrick joined Burleson ISD’s administrative staff just prior to the start of the 2014-2015 school year as director of Human Resources. One year later, he was named executive director of Human Resources and Student Services.
“He is bringing a broad range of administrative experience at both the campus and district levels,” Childress also said in the press release. “In his nine years with Burleson ISD, most recently as Chief of Schools, he has been involved in all aspects of district operations in his work with students and staff.”
Kirkpatrick began his career in 1990 as an athletic trainer and teacher in Fort Worth ISD, where he served through 1998.
He spent 16 years with White Settlement ISD, as an athletic trainer and teacher for five years before moving into campus administration as an assistant principal. In his last seven years in the district, he served as an elementary school principal.
“In our interviews with him, his enthusiasm and excitement at the possibility of becoming our next superintendent were very evident—and that made a big difference to us," Childress said. "He has a true passion for kids—meeting them where they are and doing all he can in moving them forward. Dr. Kirkpatrick wants to be the superintendent of Cleburne ISD—and he feels Cleburne would be a great place to call home.”
Kirkpatrick holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Christian University. His Master’s in Education and Doctorate of Educational Leadership degrees are from Tarleton State University.
“This is one of the most important decisions to be made by a school board,” Childress said. “We have devoted a tremendous amount of time, thought, discussion—and prayer—in seeking the right person to be our next superintendent. We are very pleased to announce Dr. Kirkpatrick as our lone finalist.”
Dallas ISD
Dallas Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Michael Hinojosa is stepping down from the position after more than six years in his most recent stint in the role, according to a district press release sent out Jan. 13, 2022.
Hinojosa, who will leave his post in December 2022, spent 42 years in public education and 13 years as Dallas ISD superintendent overall.
Hinojosa said he has had talks with the board and that they knew he couldn't be superintendent for another 10 years.
The Dallas ISD Board of Trustees has begun a national superintendent search. After initially hiring two law firms to help find Hinojosa's replacement, the Austin-based law firm Walsh Gallegos is leading that change for the district.
From April 11-14, 2022, the district held sessions talking with parents and people from the community to talk about what they expect from the new superintendent.
During a closed session on May 18, 2022, board members named Dr. Stephanie Elizalde as the lone finalist to become the district's next superintendent.
A native Texan, Elizalde is currently the superintendent of Austin ISD. She served as Chief of School Leadership for Dallas ISD before moving onto Austin ISD.
Elizalde first joined Dallas ISD in 2011 as Director of Mathematics in the division of Teaching and Learning.
Throughout her education career, Elizalde has served students as a teacher, a principal, an assistant superintendent and other roles. Along with Dallas ISD and Austin ISD, she has also worked in Southwest ISD and San Antonio ISD.
Elizalde was named one of four Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Hispanics in Education in 2014. The Dallas Morning News also named her a "Point Person" for her work in the community in 2016.
Elizalde has been awarded the UT-Austin Dr. Nolan Estes Leadership Ascension Award four times, most recently in 2017.
Elizalde is a third-generation public school educator, following in her grandmother’s and father’s footsteps.
Denison ISD
On Jan. 18, 2022, the Denison Independent School District announced that Superintendent Henry Scott would be retiring after 61 years in public education and 29 years as Denison ISD Superintendent.
Scott officially retired at the end of the 2021-2022 school year.
On Feb. 16, 2022, the Denison Board of Trustees unanimously approved to name David Kirkbride as the lone finalist as the district's superintendent.
Kirkbride had spent 16 years with Denison ISD, which included nine years as the principal of Terrell Elementary School and then seven years as the district's Assistant Superintendent for Administration.
Before moving to Denison, Kirkbride taught in Memphis, Tenn.
DeSoto ISD
The DeSoto Independent School District Superintendent D'Andre Weaver submitted his resignation on November 2021, and the school Board of Trustees voted unanimously to accept it during a November board meeting.
DeSoto ISD provided more details in December on what the superintendent search process would look like for the district's board.
The district later announced the board voted to approve Dr. Larry Lewis as interim superintendent during a special called meeting on Dec. 15, 2021.
On Jan. 28, 2022, DeSoto ISD posted on its website that district leaders are working with the O’Hanlon, Demerath and Castillo Law Firm to find the next superintendent.
The application and posting opened Jan. 25, 2022, through the law firm’s website.
On Feb. 28, 2022, The district's school board held a closed session where members opened its "Superintendent Search application process."
On April 21, 2022, the district's Board of Trustees named Dr. Usamah Rodgers as the lone finalist for the superintendent position. Trustees voted to approve the decision at a special called meeting held on April 20, 2022.
Rodgers started in the education industry as a teacher before becoming Dean of Instruction, Assistant Principal and Campus Principal.
She later transitioned to executive leadership roles as an executive director and, most recently, as the Deputy Chief of Strategic Initiatives in Dallas ISD, according to Desoto ISD.
“The Board’s hiring of Dr. Rodgers ensures that our kids’ needs are at the forefront of the district’s focus given her extensive work in shaping and preparing students for college and career readiness. As a Board, we are excited about the opportunity for Dr. Rodgers to join DeSoto ISD and lead the work of improving climate, culture, safety, and security while increasing the rigor and standards of the district in an effort to continue our work of improving student outcomes,” DeSoto ISD Board President DeAndrea Fleming said. “Dr. Rodgers has demonstrated her ability to do this work at a high level throughout her proven tenure as a teacher, campus leader, and central office administrator.”
Fort Worth ISD
On Jan. 13, 2022, Fort Worth Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Kent Scribner announced that he is stepping down from his position. His last day will be in August 2022.
Scribner tweeted that he informed the district's Board of Trustees of his plans a month prior to his announcement. A district press release said he officially informed them on Dec. 16, 2021.
His contract officially expires on Aug. 31, 2024. Scribner has led the district since Oct. 15, 2015.
Fort Worth ISD's board first discussed Scribner's retirement during a closed session of a Jan. 18 meeting.
Later in March, Fort Worth ISD released the district's agenda for the Board of Education Special Meeting on Tuesday, March 29, 2022. The release said there would be a discussion about Scribner's retirement agreement and release as an employee during this meeting.
During this meeting, the board and Scribner agreed upon him officially stepping down as superintendent on Aug. 31, 2022.
Under the board item unanimously approved by trustees, Scribner will continue to serve in an advisory capacity through February 2023.
On May 16, 2022, district leaders set up and hosted community events to get input about what should be expected from the next superintendent. They also created an online survey that was open until May 27, 2022.
On Sept. 20, 2022, Members of the Fort Worth ISD school board voted unanimously to name Dr. Angélica Ramsey as its superintendent.
Ramsey signed a three-year contract with the district, making her the district’s 21st superintendent.
Ramsey was named the lone finalist for the position of superintendent during a special board meeting in August and then completed a 21-day waiting period as mandated by state law.
Ramsey comes to Fort Worth from Midland, where she served as superintendent of Midland ISD. Prior to that, she spent nearly five years as superintendent at the Pleasant Valley School District in California.
Ramsey told WFAA her immediate top priorities are:
- Identifying areas that need improvement
- Reviewing the district's current plan
- Setting short and long-term academic goals
- Getting the district’s finances in order
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD
Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Robin Ryan announced on Sept. 23, 2022, that he will retire after 38 years in the Texas public education system.
Ryan served 13 years as superintendent for Grapevine-Colleyville ISD. His last day will be Jan. 1, 2023, and he will remain an employee until Aug. 31, 2023, pending the approval of the school board.
“I am making this announcement now so that the Board of Trustees can have time to begin the selection process for the new superintendent,” Ryan said in a press release. “The incredible level of community and district support we have experienced in GCISD has been a hallmark of our success.
Before his appointment as superintendent, Ryan served as chief academic officer in Dallas ISD and as the principal of Colleyville Heritage High School.
In August 2022, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD faced both backlash and praise after its board banned the teaching of critical race theory, implemented a review of library books and didn't require or encourage the use of pronouns that are not aligned with the gender assigned at birth.
The school district also cut ties with the Scholastic Book Fair because the company didn’t provide a full list of every book it would sell at the fair.
On Oct. 24, 2022, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD announced deputy superintendent Dr. Brad Schnautz would become the interim superintendent.
The district's school board unanimously approved Schnautz during a meeting.
"It's a time for us to serve, it's a time for us to support," Schnautz said at the meeting. "More importantly, I want to provide stability."
On Feb. 27, 2023, the Grapevine-Colleyville ISD Board of Trustees unanimously voted to name Schnautz the lone finalist as the district's superintendent.
“It’s been an honor to have served this district for nearly six years now and to have had the opportunity to play a role in helping GCISD realize gains and successes in achievement throughout our organization,” Schnautz said. “GCISD is exceptional because of its people. From our dedicated staff throughout our district to our amazingly talented students, and from our supportive and invested families to our strong partnerships with our community members, we will continue to provide the education and learning experiences that will allow our students to be leaders in their pursuits beyond GCISD. I’m blessed and excited to guide our district to further success in the future.”
With more than 20 years of experience in education, Schnautz has served in various roles, including math teacher and coach in Bryan ISD, Conroe ISD, and Magnolia ISD before becoming a campus administrator in 2008. He also has experience as a high school assistant principal, junior high school principal, and high school principal in Magnolia ISD. In 2015, Dr. Schnautz was selected as superintendent for Lexington ISD, where he led the district until his departure from GCISD.
“He possesses the qualifications and integrity necessary to lead GCISD into a bright future,” GCISD Board President Casey Ford said. “His previous experience as a superintendent in another district as well as his time as our deputy superintendent and interim superintendent make him uniquely suited to fulfill this role. He has always shown a great understanding of our community values and has a work ethic that is second to none. There’s no doubt he will continue to Build Excellent Schools Together and foster environments where academic potentials are achieved. We want to congratulate Dr. Schnautz and are proud to introduce him as our new GCISD Superintendent.”
Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
Hurst-Euless-Bedford Independent School District Superintendent Steve Chapman sent out a press release on Dec. 14, 2021, that said he would be retiring at the end of the school year.
Chapman has been in education since 1984, starting his career in San Angelo ISD before moving to Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD in 1986.
In March, the district released an announcement saying that the HEB Independent Board of Trustees named Joseph Harrington as the lone finalist for the district's superintendent position.
Harrington has spent 35 years in education. He currently serves as the district's Deputy Superintendent for Educational Operations and previously served as the school district’s Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Administration.
“Every student, teacher, and supporting employee has a unique story and pathway to success," Harrington said in the district's press release. "HEB ISD is a special place because this community believes we all have a responsibility to enable students to thrive – we truly are better together.”
Before he joined Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD in 2013, Harrington taught science and high school biology, and coached students for 16 years in three states. He eventually became an assistant principal and principal in Northwest ISD and Grapevine-Colleyville ISD.
School board president Matt Romero said Harrington is a great fit to lead the district.
“Joe understands that empowering every student to excel while maintaining our responsibilities to the local community requires strategic planning and clear communication," Romero said.
Harrington completed his doctorate in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University in 2011. Harrington and Jenny, his wife of 33 years, live in Euless and attend Ash Lane Methodist Church.
RELATED: Schools at Cedar Hill ISD, Coppell ISD, HEB ISD move to virtual learning due to cases of COVID-19
Joshua ISD
Joshua Independent Independent School District Fran Marek announced her retirement on May 26, 2022. Her resignation is effective as of June 30, 2023.
An agreement was reached between the district's Board of Trustees and Marek that she would remain as superintendent through December 31, 2022, and then beginning on January 1, 2023, Marek would transition to the position of "Superintendent Emeritus" for the remainder of her employment through June 30, 2023.
Marek will be retiring with 33 years of service to Joshua ISD with the last 10-and-a-half-years as superintendent.
With Marek as superintendent, Joshua ISD has been rated as an A-rated district by the Texas Education Agency and the district increased the number of Advanced Placement Exams from 86 AP exams in 2016 to 474 AP exams in 2022.
Under her leadership, Joshua ISD also created its own Police Department in the 2017 – 2018 school year.
During a special meeting on Dec. 7, 2022, the Joshua ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved and named Jeff Adams as Interim Superintendent.
Adams was the Superintendent of Schools for Farmersville ISD from 2000 to 2020, and he also served as the Superintendent for Big Sandy ISD from 1998 to 2000.
In his tenure, his districts received above-state standard testing 100% of the time.
Adams also has experience as a Junior High Principal and Assistant High School Principal. He also has 10 years of experience as a Teacher and High School Coach at Hallsville ISD, New Boston ISD, Pittsburg ISD, and Big Sandy ISD.
Adams earned his Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master's in Administration with Mid-Management Certification from Stephen F. Austin State University.
Adams officially began his new role on January 9, 2023.
Kaufman ISD
On Feb. 13, 2023, Kaufman Independent School District Superintendent Lori Blaylock announced her retirement to the district's board of education during a regular board meeting. The board accepted her retirement date of December 2023.
Kaufman ISD named her superintendent back in 2012
On April 28, 2023, Kaufman ISD named Dr. Joshua Garcia as the lone finalist for superintendent, according to district leaders. Garcia was the superintendent of Rockport-Fulton ISD in Rockport, Texas, where Kaufman ISD said he led the district through a long-range facilities master planning process that resulted in the passage of a $66 million facilities bond, increased the district's fund balance, and expanded opportunities for students.
Garcia has been a professional educator for 24 years with 19 years spent in leadership roles at three levels—elementary, middle school, and high school. Garcia also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Middle Tennessee State University, a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Master of Education from The University of Texas at Arlington, and a Doctor of Education from Dallas Baptist University.
"It is exciting to welcome a new leader that is committed to building on the unique strengths of the Kaufman ISD and the greater Kaufman community," Byron Gregg said, president of the Kaufman ISD Board.
Keller ISD
On June 2, 2023, Keller Independent School District superintendent Rick Westfall announced via an email to the district his intentions to retire from his position at the end of 2023, pending approval from the district's board of trustees.
Westfall had served as the district's superintendent since 2017. Before that, he spent six years as the Deputy Superintendent of Grapevine-Colleyville ISD.
He also served as principal at Keller High School from 2008 to 2011. In all, he spent nine collective years working for Keller ISD.
According to his email, Westfall plans to remain a Keller ISD employee while continuing to serve as superintendent through the end of 2023 and "assist with the transition in leadership."
"I am making this announcement now to allow our Board of Trustees time to begin the selection process of a new Superintendent," Westfall wrote in his email to Keller ISD parents. "Deciding to retire at this time was definitely a difficult decision, but one that I ultimately felt was best after much prayer and consultation with my family."
In his time as Keller ISD superintendent, Westfall oversaw the passing of a $315 million bond proposal and, per his online bio, "oversaw District Visioning process that involved thousands of stakeholders and redefined Keller ISD values."
"Keller ISD is a truly exceptional school district, and the credit for its outstanding reputation lies not only with our fantastic students and supportive families, but with our dedicated and caring teachers and staff," Westfall said in his email. "I feel blessed to have had this opportunity to lead such an amazing District and work alongside so many talented educators who daily live out our mission to educate students to achieve, inspire them to dream, and challenge them to grow so that they are prepared to be productive members of the community in which they learn, live, and work."
Little Elm ISD
Little Elm Independent School District Superintendent Daniel Gallagher announced on Feb. 14, 2022, his intention to retire from his role at the end of 2023.
Gallagher's last day as Little Elm ISD superintendent, a post he had held since 2017, is slated to come on Dec. 31 of that year -- more than 22 months after his Monday announcement date.
Little Elm ISD's Board of Trustees will begin discussing its search for Gallagher's replacement at a future meeting, a recent press release said.
As of May 10, 2022, there has been no update on the superintendent search process.
Lewisville ISD
Dr. Kevin Rogers, who was named Lewisville Independent School District Superintendent of Schools in May 2015, announced in November 2021 that he was going to retire, according to a district press release.
Rogers' last day was Jan. 31, 2022. Soon after the November 2021 announcement, the Lewisville ISD Board of Trustees began the search for the district’s next superintendent.
On Jan. 25, 2022, the Lewisville ISD Board of Trustees announced it had voted unanimously to name Lori Rapp as the lone finalist for superintendent.
Rapp most recently served as Deputy Superintendent for Lewisville ISD. She also worked for the district in the roles of Chief Learning and Teaching officer, Executive Director of Learning Design and Support, Director of PreK-12 Curriculum, and classroom teacher.
All of Rapp's 26-year career in education has been in Lewisville ISD.
“The Board of Trustees is confident we have found the best candidate to continue LISD’s achievements and lead this exceptional district to new heights,” Board President Tracy Scott Miller said. “I’d like to thank the LISD staff, community and students for providing their input during our search for our next leader. It has been truly uplifting to see how engaged our stakeholders are in the future of our district.”
During her tenure in Lewisville ISD administration, Rapp helped establish the district's Programs of Choice, which includes the LISD STEM Academy at the elementary and middle school levels, the Collegiate Academy at TCHS, world language programs, the tuition-based Discovery Academy.
In the January announcement, Rogers offered his support for Rapp.
“I’ve known Dr. Rapp for many years, and there’s no question Lori has always been a natural leader,” Dr. Rogers said. “She embodies everything that makes LISD the incredible district it is today - innovative, world-class, and simply remarkable. She was a driving force behind many of the positive changes we implemented as a district during my tenure as superintendent. I heard from so many staff and community members saying they believed she had earned this opportunity, and most importantly, that she was prepared for it. She has the dedication, knowledge and heart that is so important to the LISD community, and I am thrilled to see where she takes this district next.”
On Feb. 17, 2022, Rapp spent her first day on the job meeting with the students and teachers of Lewisville ISD. Her first stop was Peter’s Colony Elementary. Rapp then traveled throughout the district to congratulate its 10 Teacher of the Year Finalists.
“I will truly remember this day for the rest of my life,” Rapp said at the end of the day. “What a special way to start off this superintendency.”
Throughout the next few months, Rapp will continue to make her way across the district meeting with campus leadership and staff, central administrators and community leaders.
McKinney ISD
McKinney ISD Superintendent Dr. Rick McDaniel announced his retirement from the district on Dec. 2, 2022.
McDaniel came to the district in 2006 and served as principal of McKinney Boyd High School. He served eight years as principal before becoming assistant superintendent for student services in 2014 and superintendent of the district in 2015. In total, McDaniel was in education for 35 years, the district said.
"I often tell people that serving as superintendent of schools has been a great blessing, but I believe that opening McKinney Boyd High School as its first principal was one of the most rewarding and meaningful times of my career," McDaniel said.
McDaniel also said he will continue to assist with the new leadership transition.
On Feb. 28, 2023, McKinney ISD's board of trustees announced their new superintendent would be Shawn Pratt, who is currently the district's assistant superintendent of student activities, health and safety.
In its announcement, the district said Pratt has 30 years of experience in education and all of it was with McKinney ISD.
He started his career as a student teacher in 1992 and became a teacher and athletic coordinator at Slaughter Middle School in 1993.
The district said he would eventually serve as McKinney North's first head football coach when the school opened in 2000. After working there for nine years, he became the district's athletics director.
According to the district, Pratt is credited with starting the McKinney ISD Athletics Hall of Honor Award in 2013 to recognize student athletes, coaches and more.
“I am deeply honored and incredibly grateful to serve the McKinney ISD community as superintendent,” Pratt said in a statement. “McKinney has been my home since 1992 when I began my student teaching at McKinney High School and Faubion Middle School. My wife and I have raised our three children here, and all three have benefited from an outstanding educational experience. MISD has exceptional students, teachers, administrators and board members, and I consider it a true privilege to lead the MISD family.”
Per state law, there is now a 21-day waiting period before Pratt can officially be approved as the district's next superintendent.
Mesquite ISD
Mesquite ISD Superintendent Dr. David Vroonland announced he would retire from his position on June 30, 2022, according to a district press release from Dec. 13, 2021.
Vroonland became superintendent of Mesquite ISD on July 1, 2015.
On Feb. 15, 2022, the Mesquite Independent School District announced deputy superintendent Ángel Rivera as the lone finalist for the district's top job.
Texas law requires a 21-day waiting period before Rivera can officially be named superintendent. As such, his first official day as superintendent arrived on March 8, 2022.
Rivera, an Army veteran, grew up in Boston and Puerto Rico before joining the military in 1992. After seven years of service, he moved to the Houston area, where he taught middle school science in the Pasadena Independent School District.
Rivera later moved into administration, as a principal and then as an area director for the Garland Independent School District. In 2018, he came to Mesquite as the district's Chief of Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships.
Rivera has a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, a master's degree from the University of St. Thomas and a doctorate of education from Stephen F. Austin State University.
Northwest ISD
The Northwest Independent School District Board of Trustees announced Jan. 13, 2022, that Superintendent Dr. Ryder Warren will retire in July 2022. The board has begun the search process for his replacement.
Northwest ISD trustees said they are getting help in the search from the Mansfield law firm Leasor Crass, which is looking for candidates that meet trustees' desired traits and recommending those candidates to the school board.
On March 29, 2022, the Northwest ISD's board said it had unanimously approved Dr. David Hicks as the lone finalist to become the district’s next superintendent.
However, on Sept. 9, 2022, Northwest ISD leaders announced that Hicks had died following a medical emergency.
As of the announcement in September, not much is known about the circumstances surrounding Hicks' death beyond what the district said.
"Dr. Hicks had made an immediate impact on the staff and students of Northwest ISD, and we will miss him dearly," the district wrote in a statement.
On Sept. 15, 2022, Northwest ISD named Michael Griffin the new acting superintendent following Hicks' unexpected death.
Griffin was the district's assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction and was named the new acting superintendent by the district's board of trustees during a special meeting.
Griffin assumed responsibilities immediately until the board selects a permanent superintendent.
Griffin had served in her assistant superintendent role since 2018, working with campus leaders, teachers and the community, and leads several committees for the district.
On Dec. 14, 2022, Northwest ISD named Mark Foust as the lone finalist for superintendent.
Foust comes to Northwest ISD after serving as Kerrville ISD's superintendent for the past six years. Northwest ISD officials said in a press release that in Foust's tenure as Kerrville ISD superintendent, the district implemented new STEM instructional programs, expanded career and technical education opportunities, and passed a significant bond program to revitalize schools.
The release also said Kerrville ISD earned distinction as an HEB Excellence in Education Small District State Finalist and a top-10 UIL Lone Star Cup finisher during Foust's tenure.
“Northwest ISD is a destination school district in Texas – it is a highly sought-after place for families to raise their children, and a district where teachers and staff team with other incredibly talented people to serve all children in the community,” Foust said. “I look forward to Northwest ISD continuing to be a strong leader in preparing children for the next chapters of their lives and providing families with the best educational environment in the state.”
Northwest ISD said it will now follow the 21-day waiting period as required by the state before Dr. Foust can officially join the district. The district said Foust will tentatively start his new position in January.
Plano ISD
Plano superintendent Sara Bonser is retiring from her role with the district, according to a press release sent out on Jan. 26, 2022.
Bonner, who served a total of 25 years for Plano ISD in various academic roles, told the Plano ISD Board of Trustees in late January that she would be retiring as superintendent at the end of the school year in order to spend more time with family "at a critical time."
Bonser said she is working with the Board of Trustees and administration during the transition.
On Feb. 28, 2022, the district announced the Plano ISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously to name Theresa Williams as the lone finalist for the district's next Superintendent of Schools.
Then on March 21, 2022, the board then voted unanimously to officially appoint Williams as superintendent.
Williams is a career educator who has served as a teacher, school leader, district executive and deputy superintendent for two Texas school districts. As Deputy Superintendent in Plano ISD, Williams is in charge of assisting the superintendent for the district’s 73 campuses and 6,500 employees.
“I cannot think of a higher honor than being entrusted to serve the students, staff and families of Plano ISD as superintendent,” Williams said in the announcement. “I will work tirelessly, and with the highest level of integrity and commitment, for this community in order to ensure an exceptional educational experience for all students.”
Speaking on behalf of the Plano ISD Board of Trustees, President David Stolle said Williams' personal and professional story show that she is what "our community wants to see in our next leader."
"She is compassionate, student focused, of high moral character and has high expectations for student outcomes," Stolle said. "Our Board is confident we have found the right leader for Plano ISD. With her first-hand knowledge of our district and a statewide reputation for innovative leadership, we can seamlessly continue our district’s legacy of excellence for all students.”
Bonser said she supports the board’s decision and Williams' leadership.
“In addition to her knowledge of effective curriculum and instructional practices, team and talent development, and fiscal and strategic budget management, one of her standout qualities is her collaborative and visionary leadership style," Bonser said.
Williams began her educational career in Garland ISD where she taught high school Spanish. During her tenure there, she held various campus and leadership positions including director of student services and director of special programs. She went on to serve in a cabinet-level position as executive director of educational operations.
Before joining Plano ISD’s executive leadership team, Williams served four years as Lubbock ISD’s Deputy Superintendent. During her tenure there, she led the design of the district's strategic plan.
“I feel driven as an educator to ensure that students of all backgrounds feel safe and secure about who they are,” Williams said. “Students should feel welcomed, have a sense of belonging, and feel connected to school.”
Williams earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Texas Tech University and later earned a Master of Science, Educational Leadership and Administration, and a doctorate of education from Texas A&M University-Commerce.
In 2021, Williams was announced as one of nine people nationwide to be part of the sixth cohort of the Chiefs for Change leadership development program.
Williams and her husband, Todd Williams, are the parents of two sons.
“I lead with the heart of a parent, and my sons inspire me every day to promote the quality of education and learning experiences I would expect for my own children,” she said.
State law requires a 21-day waiting period following the naming of a lone finalist before officially hiring a superintendent.
Richardson ISD
On Dec. 13, 2021, Richardson Independent School District announced in a press release the district's board had accepted the resignation of superintendent Dr. Jeannie Stone. The decision was made during a school board meeting.
Shortly after the board's decision, Stone was removed from the Richardson ISD website and replaced with information on the interim superintendent, Tabitha Branum.
On Jan. 20, 2022, an "Interim Superintendent Update" was posted to the Richardson ISD website. In an attached video, Branum said the district will be posting these monthly updates where she discusses what's happening in the Richardson ISD classrooms and core-content areas.
In March, the district announced trustees will plan to formally begin the search process following the results of a May 7 board election, when three expiring board seats will be on the ballot.
On May 6, 2022, Richardson ISD said it had hired the firm O’Hanlon, Demerath and Castillo to conduct a national search for a superintendent.
Through the month of May, the district said the search firm will be conducting a series of opportunities for district stakeholders to provide input into the traits and characteristics they would like to see in the next superintendent.
On June 1, 2022, the position of the superintendent will be officially posted, and the search will formally begin. The district has a goal to announce a final candidate by July 18, 2022.
And, the district was able to meet that deadline goal. On July 18, 2022, the district announced that current interim superintendent Tabitha Branum was the lone finalist for the open position.
According to the district, Branum began her classroom teaching career at Coppell ISD in 1997 and served as an assistant principal during her career.
The district said she joined Richardson ISD as an assistant superintendent of secondary instruction and operations in 2014. She then became deputy superintendent and was named interim superintendent in December 2021 after Stone's resignation.
