Northside ISD Began Search for New Superintendent
The San Antonio district has officially initiated a national search to replace retiring Superintendent John Craft.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Administration
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Northside Independent School District trustees voted to launch a national search for a new superintendent. The Texas Association of School Boards will assist the district throughout the recruitment process.
Why it matters
This transition marks a significant leadership change for the state's large school district during a period of shifting enrollment numbers. The search arrives as the district manages both long-term optimization studies and an upcoming public vote on funding.
Northside ISD reported an enrollment of 95,937 students, representing a decrease of 1,683 students from the prior year. The district also faces an election on November 3, 2026, featuring three bond propositions totaling $886 million.
The players
John Craft
He is the outgoing superintendent who announced his retirement in June 2026 and remains a consultant for the district.
Jessica Palomares
She assumed the role of interim superintendent for Northside Independent School District on August 1, 2026.
Northside Independent School District
This is a large public school district in San Antonio, Texas, currently undergoing a search for new executive leadership.
Texas Association of School Boards
This organization provides professional development and guidance to school districts across the state of Texas.
The details
The board plans to work with the Texas Association of School Boards to outline the hiring timeline at an upcoming meeting. While current interim leader Jessica Palomares oversees operations, the district is also evaluating possible school closures by the 2027-2028 school year.
Timeline
June 2026: John Craft announced his retirement.
August 1, 2026: Jessica Palomares became interim superintendent.
September 11, 2026: District enrollment reached 95,937 students.
November 3, 2026: District election on tax increase and bond propositions.
Roadmap
The district is aligning its leadership search with standard state-level administrative practices. The process follows the established support framework provided by the Texas Association of School Boards to ensure a structured transition.
Residents should prepare for the upcoming November 3, 2026 election, which will determine the district's future tax rates and funding for bond projects. Parents and stakeholders will likely see updates on the superintendent search timeline following the board's next scheduled meeting.
The takeaway
Selecting a new superintendent is a critical step for Northside ISD as it navigates declining enrollment and potential school closures. Voters should remain informed about the upcoming bond election, which will directly impact the district's financial trajectory for years to come.
What happens next
The district will hold an election on November 3, 2026, regarding a tax rate increase and $886 million in bond propositions.
Further reading
For more on administrative developments, visit the Administration section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Dallas Morning News.
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