Please send questions and the completed application to Dr. Morris Lyon at mlyon@esc3.net.

Palacios Independent School District
Interim Superintendent – Job Description
Position Title: Interim Superintendent
Reports To: Board of Trustees
Contract Status: Temporary / Interim Assignment (Duration determined by the Board)

Primary Purpose
Serve as the chief executive officer of the district on an interim basis to ensure continuity of operations, stability of leadership, and progress toward board-adopted goals. The Interim Superintendent will maintain effective day-to-day operations while supporting the Board through a smooth and ethical transition to a permanent superintendent.

Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Governance
● Serve as the primary advisor to the Board of Trustees
● Implement board policies and ensure compliance with all state and federal laws
● Maintain alignment with board goals and priorities
● Provide clear, timely, and transparent communication to the Board

2. Organizational Stability
● Ensure uninterrupted district operations across all departments
● Maintain a positive and stable organizational culture
● Support campus and district leaders with clear expectations and guidance
● Address emerging issues promptly and professionally

3. Instructional Focus
● Maintain focus on student outcomes and academic performance
● Monitor key performance indicators (student achievement, attendance, CCMR, etc.)
● Support ongoing instructional initiatives without introducing major systemic changes unless directed by the Board

4. Financial Oversight
● Oversee the district’s financial operations, including:
    ○ Budget implementation and monitoring
    ○ Cash flow and expenditures
    ○ Compliance with Texas Education Agency (TEA) requirements
● Ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency

5. Personnel Management
● Supervise district leadership staff and evaluate performance as appropriate
● Make personnel recommendations to the Board as needed
● Maintain appropriate staffing levels and continuity of services

6. Communication & Community Relations
● Serve as the district’s public representative
● Maintain strong relationships with:
    ○ Staff
    ○ Students and families
    ○ Community stakeholders
● Communicate with professionalism, transparency, and consistency

7. Superintendent Search Support
● Support the Board and search firm (if applicable) in the superintendent search process
● Ensure confidentiality and integrity of the process
● Assist with transition planning for the incoming superintendent

Guiding Expectations for Interim Role
● Focus on stability over change
● Avoid initiating major new programs or structural changes unless directed by the Board
● Prioritize trust, communication, and continuity
● Operate with a high level of confidentiality and professionalism

Qualifications
● Valid Texas Superintendent Certification (preferred or required as determined by the Board)
● Experience as a superintendent or senior district administrator
● Demonstrated leadership in:
    ○ School governance
    ○ Financial management
    ○ Instructional leadership
● Strong understanding of Texas public school law and accountability systems

Core Competencies
● Ethical leadership and sound judgment
● Strong communication and interpersonal skills
● Crisis management and problem-solving
● Ability to build trust quickly and lead through transition
● Commitment to student outcomes and continuous improvement

Evaluation
The Interim Superintendent will be evaluated by the Board of Trustees based on:
● Effectiveness in maintaining district stability
● Progress toward board priorities
● Quality of communication and responsiveness
● Support of a successful superintendent transition

Compensation
Compensation will be determined by the Board of Trustees and outlined in the interim contract.

Closing Statement
The Interim Superintendent serves as a steady and trusted leader during a critical transition, ensuring that Palacios ISD remains focused on its mission of supporting student success while preparing for its next permanent leader.

Application available at bit.ly/3ZMNd8v. Please send questions and the completed application to Dr. Morris Lyon at mlyon@esc3.net.