Keller ISD Superintendent’s future in question amid district split controversy

Johnson said through tears that she didn’t think the proposed resolution was right and said she was willing to offer her resignation at the end of the special meeting.

“As the CEO and superintendent of this district, you hired me to look out for the best interest of every stakeholder in this district,” she said. “I think the timeline [to possibly split the district] is accelerated. I don't think we have the details. I don't think that we have the answers. And if the community decides this is something that they want, then we need the time and the right way to figure it out.”

A closer look

Keller ISD Board Trustees Joni Smith and Chelsea Kelly, who have been vocal about their opposition to the process of the potential district split, both talked about being "blindsided" by the Jan. 30 agenda item.

"I have, once again, been blindsided to see the action items added to the posted agenda, as they were not included in the agenda I reviewed with Dr. Johnson," Smith posted on her Facebook page Jan. 27. "I have been given no information about the reasoning behind this agenda item or any plans for interim leadership, nor do I think it is voluntary."

"Once again, Joni and I have been left in the dark regarding a significant decision in our district," Kelly posted on Facebook Jan. 27. "During [the Jan. 27] agenda review with Joni, neither of us were aware that action would be taken against Dr. Johnson this Thursday. It seems that Joni and I are no longer privy to discussions among the other trustees. We haven't been provided with any details about the rationale behind this abrupt decision or who would serve as interim. We haven't been asked for our input or given the opportunity to voice our concerns."

A district spokesperson did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

The backstory

Johnson served as Keller ISD’s chief human resource officer before being named the lone finalist in the district’s superintendent search in November 2023. After a state-mandated 21-day waiting period before being officially hired to the position, Johnson started her role Jan. 2, 2024, and is the first woman to serve in the superintendent position in Keller ISD.

Johnson’s public education career began more than 23 years ago. After earning a Bachelor of Science from Texas Woman’s University and a master’s degree and doctorate from the University of North Texas, she worked in the following roles:

• Elementary school teacher in Northwest ISD
• Administrative role in Grapevine-Colleyville ISD
• Coordinator of advanced academics in Keller ISD
• Executive director of human resources in Denton ISD