Mercedes schools to replace superintendent - again

MERCEDES - The school district is looking for a new superintendent for the fourth time in less than five years.

It's been almost a year since Walter N. Watson was named the Mercedes Independent School District's superintendent, but by the fall, Watson will return to his old post as director of federal programs.

Last year, Watson signed a one-year contract with the district after working as interim superintendent when Luis Ramos resigned after working here for a year.

According to previous reports, Ramos said he resigned because of "differences in philosophies."

Ramos was the second superintendent to leave the district within three years.

On Monday, the school board will meet to discuss the protocol and timeline for the hiring process, school board President Daniel Salinas said.

The vacancy or how the district plans to fill it hasn't been discussed, he said.

"We need the board to take action on any kind of statement," Salinas said.

He said he could not comment on whether the district would have wanted to extend Watson's contract beyond a year.

Among the issues the new superintendent must address are classroom performance and finances, Salinas said.

"We'd like someone energetic with experience working for the betterment of children," he explained.

"We're looking forward to preserving success for children and finding a good fit for our district to take it to the next level."

Board secretary Benjamin Castillo said once the search begins, he hopes the district can find an applicant who will help the district address its construction issues.

Currently, the district must tackle a number of ongoing construction problems, including John F. Kennedy Elementary School.

"I'm so thankful for Mr. Watson. He's done a good job and has worked hard for Mercedes," Castillo said.

Watson's contract expires June 30. Castillo and Salinas said a new superintendent is expected to be announced by the fall.