The task of brining a new superintendent to Alvin ISD ended in November with the hire of James "Buck" Gilcrease, who was serving as superintendent at Hillsboro ISD at the time. Gilcrease officially took over his duties Nov. 23, and AISD officials have scheduled several meet and greet events to introduce him to the community.
AISD's growing reputation was part of what attracted Gilcrease to the job, he said.
"The reputation of Alvin ISD has been spreading across the State of Texas and I've been aware of the great things occurring in the district for quite some time," he said. "When the chance to join the Alvin ISD team came available, I jumped at the opportunity."
AISD began its search for a new superintendent in June, following the resignation of former superintendent Fred Brent, who resigned after taking a job as superintendent at Georgetown ISD. Brent served as AISD superintendent since 2011.
The district hired consulting search firm School Executive Counseling Inc. to assist with the search for Brent's replacement. After a series of focus group sessions with parents, teachers, community members, business leaders and principals, the district named Gilcrease as the lone finalist Nov. 3.
"The Alvin ISD search attracted a considerable amount of talented individuals from across the state, and we are confident that Gilcrease holds the qualities and experiences that will continue the district's history of success," AISD board president Cheryl Harris said in a release following the decision.
Gilcrease previously served as superintendent at Haskell Consolidated Independent School District, and more recently at Hillsboro ISD, where he oversaw improvements in academic and state ratings and the expansion of instructional programs.
Gilcrease has also served as principal at multiple high schools. He has been active in various education organizations including the Texas Association of Suburban and Midurban Schools, the National Superintendent Leadership Network and as the legislative chair for the Texas Association of School Administrators.
Strengthening the relationship between the district and the community it serves is a major priority, he said.
"I immediately identified that a sense of community is pervasive throughout the entire school district," he said. "The experience I most value is related to developing relationships within the community and establishing open communication with students, parents, businesses and other community members. My priority is to be open and available for conversations that allow me to listen to concerns that may exist within the community."
Parents, students and community members are invited to a series of meet and greet events with the new superintendent scheduled throughout January. Three events are scheduled at the following times:
- Jan. 12, 5:30–6:30 p.m. at Alvin High School LGI
- Jan. 13, 5:30–6:30 p.m. at Nolan Ryan Junior High Caf
- Jan. 22, 5:30–6:30 p.m. at Manvel High School Cafe
