The Houston Public Schools Board has taken a significant step towards stability in leadership by approving a six-year contract for Superintendent Mary, who will also serve as the Executive Director of the Minnesota Virtual Academy (MNBA). This decision, made during the regular board meeting on May 2, 2024, aims to ensure continuity and strategic growth for both the district and its online school.

Superintendent Mary’s contract will span three years in her current role, followed by an additional three years as Executive Director of MNBA. Her salary will remain fixed at $150,000, with no increases anticipated during this period. This arrangement allows the board to plan for a future superintendent search, as Mary will assist in the transition when her term concludes.

The board emphasized the importance of MNBA to the district's financial health, noting that the online school generates substantial revenue. Mary’s dual role is seen as crucial for maintaining the school’s success and navigating upcoming contract negotiations with K12, which are set to occur in five years.

While the decision to approve a long-term contract raised some eyebrows among board members and external advisors, it was ultimately viewed as a strategic move to leverage Mary’s experience and vision for MNBA. Concerns about the unusual nature of the contract were acknowledged, but board members expressed confidence in Mary’s leadership and the positive trajectory of the online school.

In addition to the contract approval, discussions included the structure of future administrative roles and the potential impact on staffing as the district adapts to changes. The board is committed to ensuring that the leadership transition is smooth and that the district remains focused on providing quality education to its students.

As the board looks ahead, the decision to secure Mary’s leadership is expected to foster a stable environment for both Houston Public Schools and MNBA, ultimately benefiting the community and its students.