The search for a new superintendent in the Killeen Independent School District (KISD) has revealed significant community concerns, including what one consultant described as a "trust problem." Thompson & Horton LLP, the firm hired to lead the search, presented these findings to the school board after conducting focus groups with teachers, students, and community members.
Key Takeaways
- A consulting firm reported to the KISD board that community focus groups revealed a "trust problem" with the district.
- Participants want the next superintendent to have prior experience, preferably at least five years in the role.
- Key desired attributes for the new leader include integrity, transparency, visibility, and a willingness to take risks.
- The district's diversity and its relationship with Fort Hood were identified as major strengths.
- A timeline has been set, with the goal of hiring a new superintendent by early January.
Community Feedback Reveals Strengths and Challenges
Consultants from Thompson & Horton LLP held a series of three focus groups to gather input on the superintendent search. A total of 55 individuals participated, representing a cross-section of the KISD community, including teachers, principals, students, and local elected officials.
Mike Moses, a consultant with the firm and a former Texas Education Agency commissioner, explained their process to the board. "The first question we always ask every group is, ‘What are the strengths of the district and the community that you’re proud of, that you would want any person who is considering applying for this job to know?,’” he said.
Acknowledged District Strengths
Across all focus groups, participants consistently pointed to the district's diversity as a primary strength. David Thompson, a partner at the firm, noted the unique student body. "The diversity of the district was noted in every group as a strength, that you have individuals who come here from not only all over Texas, but all over the country and even from all over the world," Thompson reported.
The close relationship with Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos) was also highlighted as a significant asset. Other strengths mentioned included the resilience of the community, a culture of high expectations, and the district's effectiveness in preparing students for post-secondary life.
Background on the Leadership Transition
The search for a new leader began after the resignation of former superintendent Dr. Jo Ann Fey during the summer. The Killeen ISD Board of Trustees appointed King Davis to serve as the interim superintendent while the formal search process is conducted. The district hired Thompson & Horton LLP for a fee of $24,000, plus expenses, to manage the nationwide search.
The 'Trust Problem' and Other Hurdles
While celebrating its strengths, the community also voiced significant concerns. The most prominent issue raised was a breakdown in trust between the district and the community it serves.
"There were some people that said the district’s lost our trust. We’ve got a trust problem." - Mike Moses, Consultant, Thompson & Horton LLP
Moses explained that while some participants attributed this loss of trust to what they felt was unfair media coverage, others believed the district itself needed to improve its communication. A call for greater transparency was a recurring theme.
Participants also identified socioeconomic diversity as a challenge. Thompson noted the difficulty in meeting the varied needs of families across a wide economic spectrum. "Trying to scale programs appropriately to fit all kids and all families across the spectrum is a challenge," he said.
Defining the Ideal Superintendent Profile
A major goal of the focus groups was to create a profile of the ideal candidate. The feedback provided the board with a clear set of expectations from the community regarding the next district leader's qualifications and personal character.
Experience is a Top Priority
The consensus among participants was clear: the next superintendent should have prior experience leading a school district. Given the size and complexity of KISD, many felt a first-time superintendent would not be the right fit.
"The majority of participants stated that they would prefer a superintendent who has previously served in the role," Thompson said. He added that some specified a desire for a candidate with at least five years of successful experience as a superintendent.
Experience within the school system, specifically as a teacher and principal, was also deemed essential. "Overwhelmingly, people said, 'We want somebody who has served as a teacher,'” Thompson shared. He elaborated on the sentiment, stating, "It’s hard to lead when you don’t know what the people in the classroom and on the campuses are doing."
Education vs. Experience
Interestingly, while professional experience was heavily emphasized, having a doctorate was seen as less critical. According to Thompson, most participants were more interested in the candidate's character and track record than their terminal degree.
Key Personal Attributes Demanded
Beyond resume qualifications, the focus groups stressed the importance of specific personal traits. The community is looking for a leader who embodies:
- Integrity: An honest and ethical leader.
- Transparency: Open communication with staff, parents, and the community.
- Approachability: Someone who is accessible and willing to listen.
- Visibility: A leader who is present in schools and at community events.
Another critical characteristic mentioned was the willingness to be a "risk taker." Thompson explained this meant finding someone who is not afraid to make difficult decisions, particularly to improve low-performing campuses, and who will stand by those choices.
The Search Timeline and Next Steps
Thompson & Horton has established a clear timeline for the hiring process, which is publicly available on the KISD website. The firm is actively recruiting from approximately 1,200 school districts and charter systems across Texas.
"We’re still on track on the timeline that is on the website,” Thompson assured the board.
- Application Deadline: October 17
- First Round of Interviews: Late October
- Second Round of Interviews: Early November
- Lone Finalist Named: November 17
- Final Board Approval: December 8
The district's goal is to have the new superintendent in place to begin the spring semester in early January. To continue gathering feedback, a community survey was available on the KISD website until October 2. For more details on the search, the public can visit the official Killeen ISD superintendent search webpage.
