Dr. Ray Braswell, who has been the superintendent of the Denton Independent School District since 1998, is retiring after 33 years with the district.
The Denton ISD Board of Trustees unanimously accepted his resignation late Tuesday at a board meeting, following closed session discussions.
In a second motion, the board designated Dr. Jamie Wilson, who has been deputy superintendent for Denton ISD for the past five years, as the lone finalist for the superintendent’s position.
The board is required to give notice of any finalist considered for the superintendent’s job at least 21 days before an official vote can be taken, according to state law.
“Dr. Wilson is our lone finalist because he immediately emerges as a strong leader, whether it’s been during our financially challenging times or developing academic programs that better fit the needs of today’s students. There is not a better educator anywhere to lead this district during this time of transition. He’s energetic, committed and a natural leader,” said Board President Mia Price.
Dr. Wilson has been with Denton ISD for the past seven years. He was named assistant superintendent for academic programs for secondary schools in 2005 and was promoted to deputy superintendent in 2007.
As deputy superintendent, Dr. Wilson also oversees the athletic, fine arts, transportation, planning and facilities and operations.
“Throughout his tenure with the district, Dr. Wilson has worn many different hats, especially during the recent budget cuts. He has picked up so many extra duties and responsibilities at a moment’s notice, while at the same time earning his doctorate degree,” Price said.
Previously, Dr. Wilson served in various educational leadership positions for the Keller and Aubrey school districts. In Keller ISD, he was a principal, assistant principal, science department chair, coach and teacher. Prior to being principal at Keller High, he was principal at Aubrey High. He also was a biology teacher and assistant coach at A&M Consolidated High School.
He received his bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of North Texas and recently completed his doctorate of education administration from UNT where he was awarded the Outstanding Doctoral Student in Educational Administration Award.
Price praised outgoing superintendent Braswell for the many accomplishments that marked his career with Denton ISD.
“Dr. Braswell has taken the district from a small school system with little curriculum support to a large district with a well-defined and comprehensive instructional program – while diversifying the staff that supports our classroom teachers,” Price said.
Dr. Braswell was named as one of the Top Five Superintendents in Texas in 2003 and 2009.
Prior to being named superintendent in 1998, Dr. Braswell served as interim superintendent and associate superintendent. He has been the executive director for policy, planning and evaluation, executive director of research and development and director of secondary education. He also served as associate principal and assistant principal at Denton High.
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