Quick Read
- Dr. Donald Stewart Jr. was appointed as deputy superintendent to lead academic improvement initiatives.
- The district approved the $803,000 sale of the decommissioned Bellaire Elementary site to the City of Killeen.
- Contract negotiations for Manor Middle School’s operating partnership with Third Future Schools remain ongoing.
KILLEEN (Azat TV) – The Killeen Independent School District (KISD) Board of Trustees has initiated a significant leadership shift while simultaneously streamlining its real estate holdings. During its Tuesday session, the board approved the appointment of Dr. Donald Stewart Jr. as the district’s new deputy superintendent for learning services, a strategic move intended to bolster academic accountability and school performance.
Strengthening Academic Systems with New Leadership
Dr. Stewart, a veteran educator with 25 years of experience, joins KISD following a tenure as assistant superintendent of teaching and learning at Sheldon ISD. His career has been defined by a focus on improving district-wide accountability ratings and fostering robust instructional systems. Superintendent Dr. King Davis recommended the appointment, citing Dr. Stewart’s proven track record of supporting campus leadership and enhancing student outcomes. Dr. Stewart stated his commitment to building frameworks that empower teachers and facilitate student achievement as he prepares to transition into the role.
Optimizing District Assets for Community Use
In addition to leadership changes, the board voted 7-0 to approve the sale of the former Bellaire Elementary School property to the City of Killeen. According to Adam Rich, the assistant superintendent for facilities services, the city intends to repurpose the six-acre site for a new fire station to replace the existing Killeen Fire Station 5. The property, which includes a 54,700-square-foot building decommissioned in 2021, will be sold for $803,000. The transaction is expected to close within 90 days following a period of due diligence.
Ongoing Negotiations for School Operations
The board also addressed the future of Manor Middle School, opting to postpone a decision regarding a three-year operating contract with Third Future Schools. While the board previously designated the organization as an operating partner in February, Board President Brett E. Williams confirmed that contract details remain under negotiation. If finalized, the partnership would shift the management of the school’s staffing, curriculum, and budget to the external entity, while KISD maintains ownership of the facility.
The district’s dual focus on high-level administrative staffing and the liquidation of decommissioned assets reflects an aggressive effort to consolidate resources and improve performance metrics in a shifting educational landscape.