Northside ISD officials said Jan. 12 they are collecting public input as part of the search for someone to replace soon-to-retire Superintendent Brian Woods, with plans for the school board to narrow a candidate list on Jan. 31.

Woods last fall announced his intent to retire at the end of the 2022-23 academic year. Former educator Mike Moses and attorney David Thompson are tasked with shepherding the district’s search for Woods’ successor, as they have helped other Texas school districts with similar searches.

According to a statement provided by Board President Karen Freeman, the superintendent search includes four focus groups composed of 20 NISD staff, students, parents, business leaders and other residents having met with Moses and Thompson earlier in January to help trustees determine a profile of Woods’ successor.

Additionally, NISD community members are being asked to answer an online survey and offer feedback as part of the superintendent search.

Freeman said potential candidates for the superintendent’s position will be able to contact Moses and Thompson until Jan. 20. The school board will meet Jan. 31 to select the best candidates to interview, district officials added.

Freeman said two separate weeks in February will be reserved for two rounds of interviews with applicants, with a plan to name a lone finalist by March 1.

“Texas state law requires a 21-day waiting period for any public comment before the board hires the superintendent. There will be some period of time where [Superintendent] Woods will assume the role of superintendent emeritus to allow for a seamless transition from one superintendent to another,” Freeman said.