2026 Superintendent Search
Texarkana ISD Begins Search for Next Superintendent of Schools
TEXARKANA, TEXAS – At the August 25, 2026, regular meeting of the Texarkana Independent School District (TISD), the Board of Trustees has selected Arrow Educational Services, Inc. to lead the search for the district's next Superintendent of Schools.
The search comes at a time of strong momentum for Texarkana ISD. The district continues to see improvement in academic performance and accountability ratings, expanded opportunities for students, and significant investments in facilities and learning environments. Recent years have brought new and renovated facilities, expanded Career and Technical Education opportunities, increased access to early learning, and continued growth in college and career pathways.
With Interim Superintendent Sherri Penix providing experienced leadership during the transition, the district remains focused on beginning the 2026–2027 school year strong and continuing the work already underway across TISD.
"This is an exciting and important time for Texarkana ISD," said Amy Bowers, President of the Texarkana ISD Board of Trustees. "Our district has tremendous momentum, an outstanding staff, strong community support, and more opportunities than ever before for our students. Our goal is to identify a leader who will build upon that foundation while helping us continue to grow, innovate, and achieve at even higher levels."
The Board selected Arrow Educational Services, Inc., a Texas-based firm specializing in superintendent searches and support for school boards and educators. Arrow has assisted with more than 225 superintendent searches across Texas.
Jim Dunlap will lead the Texarkana ISD search on behalf of Arrow Educational Services.
The Board recognizes that selecting a superintendent is one of its most important responsibilities and is committed to conducting a thoughtful, comprehensive process to find the right leader for TISD.
Community and staff input will be an important part of that process. Additional information regarding opportunities for employees, families, students, and community members to share their perspectives on the qualities and priorities they would like to see in the district's next superintendent will be announced as the search progresses.
“We want our community to be part of this process,” said Bowers. “One of Texarkana ISD’s greatest strengths is the support we receive from our families, staff, businesses, and community. We value their perspectives and want their voices to help inform the qualities we seek in the leader who will guide TISD into its next chapter.”
The district will seek a leader who places student success at the center of decision-making; values and supports employees; demonstrates strong academic and operational leadership; communicates openly and transparently; builds meaningful relationships with families and the community; and understands the importance of continuing to expand opportunities that prepare students for college, career, and life.
Above all, the Board is looking for a leader who recognizes Texarkana ISD's strengths and is prepared to build on the district's momentum.
As the search moves forward, Sherri Penix is serving as Interim Superintendent. Penix brings extensive leadership experience and a deep understanding of Texarkana ISD, providing continuity and stability as the district begins the new school year.
The leadership transition does not change the district's focus. TISD remains committed to increasing student achievement, supporting its employees, expanding opportunities for students, strengthening partnerships, and building on the progress already underway throughout the district.
"Our work continues," said Bowers. "We have great people doing great work every day, and we are confident in the direction of TISD. This search gives us an opportunity to find a leader who shares that commitment and is ready to help write the next chapter of our district's story."
Additional information regarding the search timeline, community input opportunities, and application process will be shared as it becomes available. Interested candidates must apply online at https://arrowsearchinc.com/active-searches/.