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Mercedes school board trustees voted Wednesday to approve a contract with Superintendent Maria J. Chavez.
The board named Chavez lone finalist for that position last month after almost a year without a permanent superintendent.
Chavez served as the second interim during that period after a career that includes the superintendency of Santa Maria ISD and an assistant superintendent position at Mercedes ISD, including other teaching and administrative roles.
“I am honored and excited to join the Mercedes ISD Community. I am looking forward to continuing our work on behalf of our purpose, student success at Mercedes ISD, working alongside our exceptional parents, community, and team of administrators, teachers, and support staff. I am eager to embark on this journey of growth, collaboration, and success with our Tiger Family,” Chavez said in a release.
The board struggled some over reaching a consensus on who to name superintendent. A board effort to name previous interim Richard Rivera to the permanent position late last year failed and prompted him to leave the district.
Trustees met repeatedly this semester to discuss options for the position, talking at length behind closed doors in executive session and at one point reopening the posting for applicants.
The board’s vote last month to pick Chavez failed to be unanimous, but the selection was still one that earned the hearty endorsement of Board President Oscar Hernandez, who described her as a qualified, ideal candidate.
“On behalf of the entire Mercedes ISD School Board, I extend a warm congratulations to Mrs. Maria J. Chavez. We look forward to working closely with her as we strive to provide the best educational opportunities for our students and support the needs of our dedicated staff. Her leadership will undoubtedly inspire and empower our entire school community,” he wrote in the statement.
