Decatur, Texas, February 19, 2025 (decaturisd.us) ⎯⎯ The Decatur ISD Board of Trustees has named Taylor Williams as the lone finalist for the position of Superintendent of Schools during a special meeting on February 18, 2025. By state law, the Board must wait 21 days before it can vote to officially hire her as the new superintendent.
“The district is proud to welcome Taylor Williams to this most important leadership position,” said Stan Shults, Board President. “She brings a wealth of K-12 experience and expertise that will be a welcome addition to the Eagle family and our community.”
Williams, a veteran educator with 15 years of experience in public education, rose through the ranks to her current position as Superintendent of Schools for Slidell ISD. Among her recognitions, she was honored as Superintendent of the Year for the Education Service Center Region 11 by the Texas Association of Schools in 2022, and she was named to the Wise County Messenger’s 40 under 40 list in 2023.
“The Board was impressed by Ms. Williams' qualifications,” said Board President Stan Shults. “We have found an outstanding leader to move us into our future and to build upon the strong spirit of community that runs through Decatur public schools.”
Williams began her career as a substitute teacher in 2009 in Slidell I.S.D. and quickly found her passion for education. Since then, she has earned certifications and taught in multiple subjects including Math, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, English as a Second Language, Family and Consumer Sciences, and English Language Arts and Reading ⎯ giving her invaluable context into the work of classroom teachers. She also rose through the leadership ranks and served as students services director, testing and textbook coordinator, principal and most recently, Superintendent of Schools for Slidell ISD.
Williams, who is married to Bert and a mom of three, is a passionate volunteer who has served with numerous community groups, including CASA of Jack and Wise Counties, Feeding Wise Kids, and Live Thankfully for Wise County. Williams is also a member of the Texas Association of School Administrators, the Texas Education Agency Commissioner’s Cabinet, and the Texas Rural Education Association. She earned her bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree, both in education, from Texas Woman’s University.
Selection Process and Waiting Period
The process to select a new superintendent began in December 2024 and included both a survey and focus groups that allowed the board to receive input from parents, staff, and community members regarding the characteristics they most desired in the district’s next leader.
Interim Superintendent Dr. Karen Rue will continue to operate as the district leader during the State of Texas-mandated 21-day waiting period required by law once the lone finalist is named. The Decatur ISD Board of Trustees is expected to officially hire Williams as its new Superintendent during a special board meeting at the conclusion of the 21-day waiting period.