Texas Education Agency Appoints Board of Managers and New Superintendent for Connally ISD

AUSTIN, Texas - May 6, 2026 - The Texas Education Agency (TEA) today announced the appointment of a three-member Board of Managers and selection of a new superintendent to lead and oversee operations of Connally ISD (CISD).

"Today's appointments reflect our commitment to ensuring that every student in Connally ISD has access to the education they deserve," said Texas Education Commissioner, Mike Morath. "These three individuals have stepped up to serve their community and help move the district forward, and together, along with the new superintendent, they will build a strong, sustainable path to ensure all Connally ISD students have the opportunities and support they need to succeed."

Commissioner Morath named Dr. Josie Gutierrez as the new superintendent of Connally ISD. Superintendent Gutierrez began working today under a 21-day interim contract, pending formal approval from the Board of Managers at an upcoming board meeting.

Dr. Josie Gutierrez is an experienced educational leader with over 30 years of service. A former teacher and principal, she has a strong track record of leading district operations and developing leaders, including serving as Deputy Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources at Waco ISD, where she led impactful initiatives that improved student outcomes and strengthened teacher recruitment and retention. Known for her coaching-focused leadership approach, Dr. Gutierrez's experience and proven focus on academic improvement will be a critical asset in advancing student success across Connally ISD.

Commissioner Morath appointed the following individuals to the Connally ISD Board of Managers:

Linda Peoples Lindsey: A graduate of Connally High School's Class of 1981, Linda Peoples Lindsey, has lifelong ties to Connally ISD dating back to 1974 when her father, Mac Peoples, became superintendent-instilling in her a deep commitment to Cadet Pride and the district's success. Earning a degree from Texas Tech University and a master's in educational administration along with principal and superintendent certifications, she spent 37 years in public education as a teacher, coach and administrator. Lindsey remains committed to student success, strong academics and community-focused schools, and continues to serve as a CASA advocate, Fellowship of Christian Athletes Coastal Bend board member and community volunteer.

Matthew Stufflebeam: Matthew Stufflebeam is a real estate broker with over 20 years of experience in real estate, business operations and investment management. As a parent in Connally ISD, Stufflebeam is committed to supporting the success of local students and ensuring every child has access to a high-quality education. A Texas State University graduate and Midway High School alumnus, Stufflebeam also spent 11 years as an adjunct instructor at McLennan Community College and has served in numerous leadership roles, including president of the Waco Association of Realtors and the Heart of Texas Apartment Association, as well as treasurer for nonprofit organizations.

Carla Thomas: Carla Thomas is a proud Connally ISD alumna, a lifelong community member and the parent of a 2023 CISD graduate. With more than a decade of teaching experience in the district, she has dedicated her career to advancing student growth, academic success and community well-being, and remains committed to improving outcomes and expanding opportunities for all Connally ISD students. Thomas holds a bachelor's degree in health services technology and master's degree in educational administration from Lamar University. She currently works as a community health and wellness coordinator and part-time adult education instructor at McLennan Community College, supporting student well-being and academic success. She is also an active servant leader in the Waco Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

The appointed Board of Managers today temporarily replaces the current elected board of trustees and will be responsible for overseeing the management of the school district. The Board of Managers will hold public board meetings and has the same legal requirements and obligations as the elected Board of Trustees. This includes holding all meetings in public, allowing for public comment, holding public hearings and posting all required budget and tax information for public review and discussion.

The board will work collaboratively with the new superintendent to meet the exit criteria set forth by TEA that must occur before the transition back to the elected board. Specifically, the exit criteria that address the underlying causes for intervention include (1) ensuring the district has zero multi-year unacceptable campuses, (2) improving student proficiency for all students in Reading and Mathematics, and (3) the school board achieving a "Meets Focus" designation using the Lone Star Governance Implementation Integrity Instrument.

Background of Agency Intervention and Board of Managers Process

On December 11, 2025, Commissioner Morath announced TEA's intent to appoint a Board of Managers for Connally ISD, an action required under the bipartisan law, House Bill (HB) 1842, passed in 2015 by the Texas Legislature.

Applications for the Board of Managers came from McLennan County residents.

• Total applications: 20
• Male - 11, Female - 9
• African American/Black - 4, White - 13, Hispanic - 3
• Educational Attainment: Master's - 9, Bachelor's - 6, High School Diploma - 5
• Lone Star Governance: 15 candidates completed the required LSG training

Superintendent Selection Criteria

Per statutory authority granted by HB 1842, the Texas Education Commissioner is required to appoint a Board of Managers and a superintendent. TEA conducted a national search and interviewed candidates with a strong track record of improving outcomes for students in prior school system leadership roles. Additionally, candidates were evaluated for competencies in several key areas, including curriculum and instructional leadership, student support services, talent management, performance management, systems leadership and community engagement and communication.

###