WHITE OAK, Texas — The White Oak ISD board accepted the resignation of Superintendent Dr. William Paul during a special-called meeting Friday afternoon.
Paul, who has been superintendent for slightly over a year, submitted his resignation and the board trustees gave their approval following a closed session that lasted just under an hour. The resignation will be effective June 30.
The board also announced that Jack Parker, who was the assistant superintendent, will serve as interim superintendent. Trustees voted to table the search process at this time.
In a joint statement from the board and Paul, both parties said they reached an agreement that allows Paul to pursue other interests and enables the board to begin searching for a new superintendent.
"On behalf of the entire district, the Board of Trustees expresses its sincere appreciation to Dr. Paul for his efforts while serving as superintendent of this great school district and its wonderful students, parents and administrators, for the many achievements and accomplishments of the entire district team during Dr. Paul’s tenure as superintendent," the statement read.
Paul thanked the board members both past and current for giving him the chance to serve White Oak ISD and noted the district's commitment to the children and their achievements.
The board and Paul also acknowledged the teachers, principals, administrators, staff, students, parents and patrons who have contributed to the district’s accomplishments.
"The board extends its best wishes to Dr. Paul in his future endeavors. On its part, the board will soon begin its search for a new superintendent as not to disrupt the district’s operations," the statement concluded.
In a White Oak community Facebook page earlier this week, Paul said his resignation "isn't the end of the world." He added White Oak has a great community and school, and he's proud of his time and accomplishments made at the school district. He said WOISD has a good board and he has been a good superintendent.
"God is guiding this. He brought me here and now He says it’s time for something else. There are a lot of positives for my family and myself in this situation," Paul said. "Please don’t rip each other apart over this. Trust the board. Trust me."
Paul started as superintendent in April 3, 2023 as the 2022-23 school year was coming to a close. Paul succeeded Brian Gray, who had announced his retirement from White Oak ISD in late December 2022, according to a Longview News-Journal article. Paul previously worked as superintendent at Windthorst ISD, northwest of Dallas.