   |
 |
New Security Systems For ECISD
Ectory County ISD Superintendent Retires, District Next Move 3/19/13
fbolton@cbs7.com
CBS 7 News Reporter
March 19, 2013
ODESSA, TX - Today after serving 33 years with ECISD, Superintendent Hector Mendez says he's saying goodbye to his position in the district to focus on those who are closest to his heart.
After announcing his retirement from his position, colleagues greeted Mendez with an abundance of handshakes and hugs.
Mendez is the man that recently spearheaded the ECISD multi-million dollar bond.
Some West Texans have mixed feelings about his decision to leave.
"That seems kind of pointless, for him to just walk away from all that and leave it in someone else's hands. It seems like a lot of money [in the school bond] to change hands and for him to just walk away," said Odessan Adam St. Louis.
"I think it's great. I think the man needs a good rest," said Kim Gooden, retired Odessan Teacher.
Mendez says he's making the choice to spend time with his loved ones.
"We're not indispensable, we're not going to last forever. There are some things you need to look at in terms of family. That’s where I’m at right now… It’s time for me to devote time and dedicate more of my time to my family," Superintendent Hector Mendez, Ector County ISD.
He says through the groundwork on having a standardized curriculum and strategic plans the district is already set in place to succeed, especially with support from the community.
"Public schools are that public. They belong to the community. We have to have a genuine, meaningful relationship with all stakeholders,” said Mendez. “ I think the district is heading in the right direction. We have a supportive board, a community that I believe has trust and confidence [in the board].”
Now the school board is searching to find a new superintendent by June 30, the last day of Mendez’s contract.
"The board will be getting back together in order to take a look at the process … to see what direction will be taken next, " said Ray Beaty, ECISD School Board President.
Beaty says they could look nationwide, statewide or internally in order to find the right candidate to fill the shoes of Hector Mendez.
ECISD Chief of Staff Dr. H.T. Sanchez worked closely with Mendez. He says there is no word yet, if he would be considered for the position.
Sanchez goes on to say that he, just like many stakeholders in ECISD, would be honored to follow in the footsteps of Hector Mendez.