Judson ISD trustees vote to 'proceed as discussed' after closed-door consultation on superintendent

At a special Saturday meeting largely devoted to public comment, the Judson ISD Board of Trustees voted 6–1 to "proceed as discussed in closed session" on personnel action relating to Superintendent Milton Fields and later authorized board officers to hire outside legal counsel.

Dozens of staff, parents and longtime community members filled the board room and urged trustees to preserve leadership stability while the district navigates a multi‑million‑dollar budget shortfall. "Serious questions about fiscal stewardship, transparency and leadership" and concern about morale were common refrains among commenters, but the dominant theme in public testimony was support for Dr. Milton Fields. Ed Patch told the board the issues "affect classroom resources" and urged trustees to "put away your petty differences." Several educators and principals said removing the superintendent now would accelerate staff departures and impose buyout and interim costs the district can ill afford.

Board member Miss Lee introduced a motion in open session to relieve the superintendent of his duties and place him on administrative leave pending investigation, with pay effective immediately, and to…