Northside Independent School District superintendent to retire

Northside Independent School District (NISD) Superintendent Dr. John Craft will retire after serving nearly three years in the role. Craft, who has worked in public education for 27 years, was hired in 2023 after previously leading Kileen ISD. His retirement follows a tenure marked by significant challenges, including a $35 million budget deficit that threatened school closures and raised concerns about financial stability. During his time as superintendent, NISD faced multiple controversies, including the conviction of a district police officer who shot a woman outside a football game in 2026. Additionally, a Stevens High School student died after collapsing during football practice, and an instructional aide, Alfred Jimenez, died in 2024 after a student with disabilities pushed him. Jimenez’s widow, Margo Jimenez, has criticized the district for failing to provide transparency or closure regarding his death. KSAT Investigates reported that NISD had the highest number of student-caused injuries among Bexar County educators over the past three school years, raising questions about safety protocols and staffing. Despite pressure from Jimenez’s family and advocacy groups, the district has not fully addressed concerns about training and preventive measures. Craft acknowledged limitations imposed by state laws during a board meeting in April but declined to offer specifics without legal counsel. The NISD school board will meet on June 9 to review a transition plan for selecting a new superintendent. Craft’s departure comes as the district continues to navigate financial and operational challenges, including the need for improved safety measures and accountability. His retirement marks the end of an era for NISD, with the board now tasked with finding leadership to address ongoing issues.