Veteran North East ISD Superintendent Brian Gottardy announced his retirement at last night's Board of Education meeting, effective that the end of the current school year, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
Gottardy, who has led the county's second largest school district since 2011, is credited with cutting the district's property tax rate, despite dealing with explosive student growth and the addition of several new schools.
Gottardy also led an extensive strategic planning process in the district to find out 'what parents and community members value most' about public schools.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to be the Superintendent of North East ISD. Eight years ago, I was humbled and very proud about being the next superintendent of NEISD. I have the utmost respect and admiration for the students, parents, employees and community members who make up this great District. NEISD will forever hold a very special place in my heart,” said Gottardy.
Gottardy started his career in public education 35 years ago in the North East ISD as a physical education coach. He moved to the Southwest ISD where he headed the transportation department, and returned home to North East to continue his career in transportation.North East promoted him to Asociated Superintendent of Operations in 2004, and he was named Superintendent by the Board of Education in 2011.
He is active in the Texas Education Agency as a member of the Commissioners' Cabinet. He is also active in community organizations, including the United Way and the Go Public Steerign Committee.