The Texas Education Agency announced in a July 16 news release that Houston ISD board member Michelle Cruz Arnold is resigning and will be replaced by former teacher Karen Duffy.
What's happening?
Cruz Arnold served on the state-appointed board at Houston ISD for approximately three years. However, she said she felt that it was the right time for her to "conclude her journey on the board."
“Stepping into this role, my goal was to lend my time and energy to support our district through a critical and unprecedented chapter, and I am deeply grateful for the privilege it has been to serve the students and families of Houston," she said in the release. "To my fellow board members, thank you for your unwavering partnership, your brilliant minds and your relentless work ethic. It has been an honor to serve alongside you."
The changes
TEA officials appointed Karen Duffy to replace Cruz Arnold, effective immediately. Duffy is a former teacher, active volunteer in the community and a parent of two current HISD students, per the release.
Board President Ric Campo said he expects Duffy's insights and expertise to bring value to the board.
“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve on the Houston ISD school board ...," Duffy said. "As an HISD parent, this role is deeply personal for me and I look forward to working with my fellow members, district leadership team and our community as we maintain a relentless focus on student outcomes."
Duffy formerly served on the HISD District Advisory Committee and has held roles with the Travis Elementary Parent Teacher Association, including two years as president.
Something to note
The TEA extended the state's takeover of HISD in 2025 by two years. The state will continue to run the district through June 2027 unless another extension is granted. Until that time, board members are still appointed by the education agency.
