The Midland Independent School District Board of Trustees unanimously approved a one-year contract extension for Superintendent Dr. Stephaniel Howard following a closed-session discussion at its most recent meeting.
According to the board, the vote authorized the board president and Dr. Howard to finalize and execute the extension as negotiated in executive session. Trustees entered closed session under state law to review the superintendent’s annual appraisal and contract before reconvening in open session shortly after 11 p.m. The motion to approve the extension passed with a 7-0 vote, with no public discussion prior to the vote.
According to a social media post by Matt Friez, Midland ISD District 4 trustee, the board approved the extension while keeping Dr. Howard’s salary and retirement benefits unchanged due to ongoing financial challenges facing the district. Friez said, “the decision reflects progress made under Dr. Howard’s leadership,” including an increase in the district’s accountability rating from 66 to 72.
Friez also highlighted improvements in special education initiatives, academically focused board policies, and fiscal management, noting a reduction of more than 80% in the $42 million budget deficit. He added that “the coming year should focus on sustaining academic gains, strengthening operations, maintaining financial stability, and maintaining steady oversight of district construction projects.”