As this school year ends, many students leave school completely forgetting about school and all of its responsibilities, but the staff members stay and continue making sure that the schools are being successful. The superintendent leads this charge, making sure the school are ready for the next group of students when August rolls around.

A new superintendent, Dr. Kimberly James, was chosen by the school board after extensive interviews and processes. She started her new job after a 21-day state-required waiting period.

James says her background had a positively significant impact on her life and she expresses her gratitude to her family as they impacted the course of her life as well.

“I grew up on the northside of Houston in the Aldine ISD school district,” Superintendent Dr. Kimberly James said. “I graduated from Nimitz HS. Both my parents were in education, and our family is rooted in faith. I know watching my parents as servant leaders had a great impact on my life, and I’m grateful for being raised by such pillars in my community.”

The new superintendent says she feels welcomed into the Willis ISD family. James was chosen after a 10-month search by the district.

“I have felt so welcomed with such an enthusiasm,” James said. “It is hard to feel anything but excitement about being a part of this community. From parents to staff and definitely our students across the district. I’m ready to listen and learn from everyone.”

James says she appreciated the small town feel that Willis provided, which is what attracted her to the district. Another important factor was her importance of family, who live close to the district.

“I wanted to come to Willis because I loved the small town feel and one high school district,” James said. “Everyone belongs and is a part of the Wildkat success. I wanted that. It is motivating and inspiring to all be part of the team. I also have family close by and this made sense to come back home to be closer to them.”

The newly chosen superintendent says she has many plans for the future of Willis ISD as she is excited to learn about the atmosphere here at Willis.

“I am so excited to learn about all things Willis,” James said.  “I have a 30-60-90 day plan that includes some will be sharing with the community that outlines the goal of a listening and learning tour to really understand the things people love about Willis.”

James wants to listen to the advice and comments from the Willis community in order to make decisions and to realize what the district needs.

“I’m ready to listen to what makes them proud to be a part of Willis ISD and what things they think need my attention,” James said. “I plan to meet with students, teachers, staff and families and community members. From all of that feedback I will share with the board a summary of that information and determine what next steps need to be taken. I cannot wait.”