Schools

Leander Schools Chief Announces His Resignation

Superintendent Bret Champion leaving district to accept same position at a Houston-area school district.

LEANDER, TX -- Leander ISD superintendent Bret Champion announced his resignation Thursday afternoon in order to lead another school district in the Houston area.

"The decision to leave Leander ISD was the most difficult professional decision I’ve ever had to make," Champion wrote in a statement on the district's website. "This is Marcee’s and my home, the place our boys were educated, and a spot where we have made deep friendships."

Champion accepted a job as superintendent of the school district in Klein, a community in northwest Harris County with 50,000 students. He was the lone finalist for the job he'll start in July, he noted.

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"With both boys in college now, when the unique opportunity to lead Klein ISD opened up, we decided to start a new adventure!" he wrote.

Champion was named to the top schools post in 2008, and has worked at the district -- where he began as a teacher -- for 22 years.

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The school board plans to meet on Monday to discuss steps in searching for a new superintendent. In his statement, Champion said the district will continue to thrive, even in his absence.

"Leander ISD, of course, will be fine...great, even!" Champion wrote "This district isn’t about me, but about the wonderful system we all have created over the years. We are blessed with a strong and student-focused Board, astounding staff, dedicated parents and a wonderful community."

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