The Killeen ISD Board of Trustees took the next step toward selecting the district’s next permanent superintendent Tuesday, approving Thompson & Horton LLP to lead the search and outlining a process that will include meaningful community input.
The firm brings extensive experience in educational leadership recruitment. Trustees emphasized that the process will engage a broad spectrum of community stakeholders ranging from parents to staff. Input will be obtained through surveys, focus groups, and public meetings. Although a timeline has been established, Trustees emphasized that quality will not be compromised for the sake of a timeline.
“The Board of Trustees is committed to finding the right leader for Killeen ISD. Our district's next leader must embrace our community. The next superintendent of Killeen ISD must have a proven track record of the ability to drive academic achievement that is reflective of the goals established by the State of Texas," said Board President Brett E. Williams. “It is our belief that Thompson & Horton can oversee and guide a process that is engaging with our community and positions the district to attract a candidate pool that is reflective of the wants and needs of KISD."
The contract with Thompson & Horton LLP is for $24,000 plus expenses.
Trustees also approved a more competitive substitute pay rate to attract and retain quality substitutes. The new structure increases daily pay across all categories and adds incentives for substitutes who work more days during the school year. Under the new plan, substitute pay now ranges from $95 to $150 per day depending on the role and number of days worked.
In other news, the board approved the 2025-2026 Student Code of Conduct handbook, reflecting changes driven by state law and district priorities for safety and conduct:
Technology Use: In compliance with House Bill 1481, students may not use personal communication devices during the instructional day. Elementary students may not bring such devices unless issued by the school.
Dress Code: Only clear or mesh backpacks are allowed.
Safety: Students must wear seat belts when available on school buses.
Behavior Expectations: New provisions address antisemitism and allow teachers to formally remove students from class in cases of repeated or severe disruption.
Trustees approved a resolution authorizing the sale of the former Sugar Loaf Elementary. Similar resolutions were approved in 2020 for the former Bellaire Elementary and Clifton Park Elementary. Once these former schools are sold, the district expects to save approximately $300,000 annually — about $100,000 per school — in operating costs for maintenance, grounds, utilities, and insurance.