The Victoria Independent School District (VISD) announces that Dr. Quintin Shepherd, Superintendent, will be leaving the district. Dr. Shepherd has been selected as the lone finalist to serve as superintendent for Pflugerville Independent School District (PISD) in Pflugerville, Texas. A transition timeline for his departure has not been established at this time and will be shared as soon as it becomes available.
Dr. Shepherd expressed his gratitude for his time at VISD, stating, "It has been an honor to serve as the superintendent of VISD. I am immensely proud of the progress we have made together, and I am grateful for the support of the VISD community. While I will miss Victoria, I am excited about the opportunity to lead and serve in Pflugerville ISD."
Dr. Shepherd joined Victoria ISD in 2018, bringing a wealth of knowledge, over 20 years of experience, and a dedication to educational excellence. During his tenure, he spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing student achievement and providing choice educational pathways for students.
Key highlights of Dr. Shepherd's tenure include:
Doubling the number of identified gifted students within VISD.
Collaborating with UT Health to establish an Early Childhood Institute at FW Gross, subsequently pivoting to inaugurate an early childhood center.
Spearheading the development of elementary learning pathways including ACE, Math Innovation Zone, STEM, and Personalized Learning.
Introducing two middle school pathway options for students: STEM and Personalized Learning, resulting in 50% of middle schools now being designated as "choice" schools.
Increasing enrollment and performance in AP, pre-AP, and dual credit courses, with a particular focus on economically disadvantaged students.
Deployment of P-TECH high school pathways, with plans for further expansion.
Expansion and enhancement of Career and Technical Education (CTE) coursework.
Achieving a graduation rate that surpasses state averages.
Emphasizing the importance of each student finding their "&" - signifying readiness for college, military, or employment post-graduation - with a goal of 100% attainment.
Demonstrating fiscal integrity and efficiency, with a notable increase in the fund balance from less than 30 days to over 120 days cash on hand.
Implementing staff pay increases and optimizing resources through campus mergers and district-wide rezoning.
Establishing task forces to advise bond recommendations and successfully passing a bond for the reconstruction of Mission Valley Elementary school.
Maintaining the highest rating in the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST).
"Dr. Shepherd has led VISD with distinction for six years, leaving a lasting impact on students, staff, and the entire community. His leadership, vision, and commitment to achieving excellence in VISD will be dearly missed," commented VISD Board President Mike Mercer.
Next Steps:
The VISD Board of Trustees will meet to accept the resignation of Dr. Quintin Shepherd, superintendent of schools.
The Board will begin the search for a new superintendent immediately, working diligently to ensure a smooth transition and continued success for the district.
For more information, please visit www.visd.net/superintendentsearch.