The state-appointed Houston Independent School District Board of Managers voted in a private meeting to give Superintendent Mike Miles a five-year contract extension.
This means he will continue leading the district throughout the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) ongoing oversight—and into the eventual return to local control.
Board President Ric Campo stated on Thursday that, “The five-year term of the contract ensures that Houston ISD can continue its transformation for the duration of the state intervention while allowing for continuity and a smooth transition when the district returns to local control.”
Recently, TEA extended its control over the district for two more years, through June 2027.
The contract extension follows Houston ISD’s recent success on the 2025 STAAR exams. High school students’ end-of-course assessment scores were above the statewide average in Algebra I, jumping from 38 to 51 percent who met or mastered grade level, and in Biology, rising from 40 to 63 percent who met or exceeded grade level.
Preliminary results from grades 3 through 8 also showed improvement in most subjects. These academic gains reportedly played a major role in TEA’s decision to extend its control of the district.
Still, about 40 schools in the district remain rated as academically unacceptable. That’s one of the key conditions that must improve before the state will return power to an elected school board.
Just hours before the contract vote, TEA replaced four members of the Houston ISD board: Audrey Momanaee, Cassandra Bandy, Rolando Martinez, and Adam Rivon. Rivon stated he was surprised and claimed the TEA denied the changes were linked to questions he raised about oversight. He continued, “people are intelligent and they can make their own assumptions.”
Miles was appointed in 2023 and quickly launched a system-wide reform effort called the “New Education System.” This plan includes fast-paced, scripted lessons, AI-generated reading materials, and strict pacing tools.
Supporters say these changes have helped improve STAAR scores. Opponents worry the changes reduce teacher independence and lead to higher staff turnover.
“With the recent release of STAAR exam results, it is clear that under his leadership, our schools and students are making extraordinary academic progress,” Campo stated.
With Miles now confirmed for five more years and TEA in control through 2027, Houston ISD will focus on meeting three key goals before local leadership can be restored:
- Fixing long-term failing campuses
- Creating a leadership model centered on student outcomes
- Improving special education
Last week, a Houston ISD special education teacher was recommended for termination after allegedly locking several special needs students in a cabinet.
