The Killeen Independent School District Board of Trustees voted 7-0 Monday to name Dr. King Davis the lone finalist for superintendent of schools, selecting an experienced educator known for a calm, steady presence and the ability to build trust in times of challenge.
The announcement follows a search process that included community focus groups and surveys that identified what stakeholders wanted to see in the district’s next leader. Trustees said working with and observing Dr. Davis during his 10 weeks as Killeen ISD’s interim superintendent provided clear evidence of his fit for the role.
“After careful consideration of the qualities our community said matter most, the board concluded that Dr. Davis’s experience, background and leadership attributes align strongly with those priorities,” said Board President Brett E. Williams. “We fully believe he understands the assignment and the associated challenges. From day one he engaged priority issues with a long-term mindset. He is not only visible, but approachable and engaged in all spaces he enters. He has demonstrated the ability to communicate clearly and concisely. Even more importantly, he has shown a willingness to listen to students, staff, and the community. The Board of Trustees is confident Dr. King Davis brings the needed skillset and personal attributes to lead Killeen ISD to a level of student achievement and district pride that is desired by the community.”
Dr. Davis has served as Killeen ISD’s interim superintendent since Aug. 11. Under his interim leadership, KISD has taken meaningful steps to address student achievement, organizational efficiencies, and TEA accountability. His proactive approach to navigating Texas Education Agency compliance and district optimization work during his short tenure as interim has proven to be vital in positioning Killeen ISD to be successful. Trustees also cited his statewide reputation and his ability to organically engage across the community as strengths that will expand partnerships and momentum.
Before joining Killeen ISD, Dr. Davis served as superintendent of Sheldon ISD for eight years, leading a district turnaround from “Improvement Required” to a consistent “B” accountability rating. He also balanced an $11 million budget deficit in a single fiscal year and oversaw significant academic and operational improvements. His previous experience includes serving as superintendent of Wharton ISD, deputy superintendent in Everman ISD, and assistant superintendent in Crosby ISD, with earlier roles in Mesquite, Corsicana, Dallas and Lufkin ISDs.
“I am deeply honored by the trust this board has placed in me,” Dr. Davis said following the vote. “Our district has faced real challenges, and I believe in the strength of this community and the dedication of our educators. Together, we will rebuild trust, raise expectations and ensure every child in Killeen ISD thrives.”
Pending a state-mandated 21-day waiting period, the board is expected to officially name Davis as KISD’s superintendent in November.