IDEA names president, chief schools officer

IDEA Public Schools announced Friday that its board of directors has named Cody Grindle as president and Ernesto Cantu as chief schools officer.

According to a release, Grindle will be based in Austin while Cantu will work out of the Rio Grande Valley. Both will start July 1.

“As we complete another successful school year, I’m excited to turn our efforts toward preparations for next school year and the exciting and bright future at IDEA,” Superintendent Jeff Cottrill wrote. “Each are highly regarded senior leaders well-known throughout our Team & Family. They operate with the utmost integrity and have historically led exemplary teams. I am fortunate to work with both inspiring leaders and the entire team to ensure IDEA delivers on its promise of high expectations resulting in student achievement and success in college and beyond.”

Grindle, who has been with IDEA for 14 years, started as an English teacher at a Mission school and rose through the ranks of technology roles at the district, being named Chief Information Officer two years ago, the release stated.

“Cody’s keen insights and creative solutions have influenced nearly every aspect of IDEA’s operations, from students’ daily attendance to family recruitment and our COVID-19 pandemic response,” it stated. “As President, Cody will oversee chiefs and teams supporting IDEA’s operations, including Information Technology, Advancement, Human Assets, and Operations.”

Cantu, meanwhile, has worked with IDEA for almost 20 years, the release stated. He started as a part-time tutor and eventually worked his way up from teaching to area superintendent by 2021.

“Ernie will oversee all IDEA regions and campuses in Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and Ohio, as well as the organization’s Student Support Services and Talent Development teams,” it stated.