The Texas Education Agency has intervened in the Connally Independent School District (ISD) by appointing Josie Gutierrez, an experienced educator from a nearby Waco district, to spearhead efforts to enhance academic performance. This decision comes as part of a broader initiative by Commissioner Mike Morath, who has recently taken control of several districts struggling with educational outcomes.
Gutierrez, who previously served as deputy superintendent and assistant superintendent of human resources in Waco ISD, was selected for her proven track record in improving student results and bolstering teacher retention. Her appointment is part of a series of recent changes aimed at revitalizing school leadership in areas facing significant academic challenges.
The takeover of Connally ISD was prompted by the dismal performance of two of its campuses—a junior high and an elementary school—which have failed to meet Texas’ academic accountability standards for five consecutive years. Earlier in the year, district officials announced the decision to close Connally Elementary, and while the junior high managed to raise its rating from an F to a D in 2025, these efforts were insufficient to avert state intervention.
During a visit to the district last year, Morath expressed his commitment to improving educational quality, stating, “These are kids that are full of hope and opportunity, very well-behaved. They’re eager to learn, and I know that the administrative team here is working hard to try to provide improved quality of learning. The question is, how do we go even faster? How do we give kids the absolute best?”
As part of the restructuring process, Morath has also appointed three community members to form a board of managers, effectively replacing the powers of the elected trustees. In 2023-24, only one out of Connally ISD’s five campuses received an acceptable rating, with just 24% of students performing at or above grade level on state standardized assessments—significantly lower than the state average.
Since the announcement of the takeover, Connally school leaders have implemented significant staff reductions, cutting nearly 100 positions, including all principals, many assistant principals, and around 50 teachers, as part of their efforts to restructure the district.
