A recent online poll conducted by KDH has shed light on community preferences regarding the pivotal leadership role within the Killeen Independent School District, indicating a strong desire for an internal candidate to serve as the permanent superintendent. Over 56% of respondents expressed their belief that the Killeen ISD board of trustees should prioritize selecting someone already deeply familiar with the district’s unique challenges and strengths.
This community input comes in the wake of former Superintendent Jo Ann Fey’s abrupt resignation on July 23. Her departure necessitated immediate action from the KISD board, which swiftly appointed Terri Osborne, the district’s deputy superintendent for curriculum, instruction, and school leadership, as acting superintendent. This interim appointment has further fueled discussions about the benefits of continuity and deep institutional knowledge in a permanent leadership role.
The Killeen school board is set to reconvene this week to outline the comprehensive interview process for both the interim and permanent superintendent positions. The urgency of this decision is underscored by the district’s complex operational landscape and the critical need for stable leadership. Stakeholders are keen to see a transparent and effective selection process that addresses the community’s voice.
Fey, who assumed the Killeen ISD superintendent role in June 2023, transitioned to a deputy superintendent position within the Northside Independent School District in San Antonio. Ironically, she will now work under John Craft, the very individual she succeeded in KISD, highlighting the fluid nature of educational leadership roles across Texas.
The Killeen school district has navigated significant hurdles in recent times, including a notable reduction in federal funding which directly impacts various programs and services. Moreover, the district has faced scrutiny over its performance on state standardized tests, with scores often falling short of desired benchmarks. These ongoing challenges emphasize the need for a superintendent who can effectively address both financial constraints and academic improvement.
Adding to the district’s complexities, the Killeen community is still grappling with the tragic fatal stabbing of a student on a Killeen middle school campus in March. This devastating incident profoundly affected residents and led to widespread calls for enhanced safety protocols and more proactive, visible leadership within the school system. The next superintendent will inherit the responsibility of restoring trust and ensuring student well-being.
Despite these considerable challenges, the poll results clearly indicate a prevalent sentiment that an internal candidate could provide the most effective leadership for the district’s top administrative post. The survey, conducted between July 27 and August 2, explicitly asked: “Should the Killeen ISD board of trustees consider selecting an internal candidate to fill the superintendent’s vacancy on a permanent basis?”
The leading response, garnering 41.8% of the votes, emphatically stated: “Yes. An internal candidate who knows the district well is an ideal choice, moving forward.” Another 14.5% of respondents concurred, adding a unique perspective: “Yes. Military-connected districts are different. KISD should leverage that knowledge.” Conversely, 20.6% favored an external perspective, believing Killeen ISD needs someone who can offer an experienced, outside viewpoint, while another 13.3% prioritized a superintendent well-versed in large-district finances.
