Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Rodney E. Watson has announced that he will accept a new role with the Texas Association of School Boards as deputy executive director, effective in January 2022. 

Since taking the helm at Spring ISD in 2014, Watson has led advancements in early-childhood and special education, improved student data management, increased opportunities and choice schools and initiatives for students, implemented innovative new-teacher development and postsecondary preparedness programs, and overseen completion of a $330 million bond referendum. In addition, Watson developed new community partnerships with local businesses and organizations aimed at strengthening the vision of Spring ISD. Most recently, he served as Board Chair of Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce and currently served as Board Chair for Northwest Assistance Ministries. 

“I am deeply proud of all we have accomplished together as a team in Spring ISD for the benefit of the more than 33,000 students we serve every day,” Watson said. “I have worked shoulder to shoulder over the past seven years with a phenomenal board, excellent principals, central office administrators, and school staff to improve student outcomes — and I look forward to joining TASB to offer critical support needed for school districts across the state.”

Watson said he hopes announcing his decision now will give the Board of Trustees ample time to identify and prepare his successor. Spring ISD Board President Rhonda Newhouse said Watson leaves big shoes to fill. 

“I want to thank Dr. Watson for his past seven years of service to Spring ISD. As a board, my fellow trustees and I are grateful for his steady leadership and wish him well in the next chapter of his career,” Newhouse said. “Looking forward, we are committed to the planning process to select the next new dynamic leader of Spring ISD.”

The Texas Association of School Boards is a voluntary, nonprofit, statewide education association that serves and represents the more than 1,000 local Texas school boards. As executive director, Watson will oversee key departments and initiatives at TASB, including Board and Management Services, as well as guiding large cross-functional projects, with the goal of ensuring an excellent and integrated member experience. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Rodney to the TASB team where he’ll be able to bring his many years of experience as an educator, administrator and superintendent to serve students and school districts across the state,” said TASB Executive Director Dan Troxell. “Rodney knows firsthand the many challenges and opportunities facing school districts, and I’m confident that he will be able to help elevate the support and resources our members expect from TASB.”