Prior to the school year, Superintendent Dr. Don Stockton announced his retirement after 32 years in Conroe ISD.

Stockton has been Superintendent for CISD for 15 years and has a total of 34 years in education. The superintendent is the most powerful employee in the district responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the district and executing the will of the board of trustees.

With such a high position, the board had to approve a retirement agreement with Stockton. Though he will still help, Stockton will be officially retired and has plans to travel with his wife who is also retiring after 28 years in the district.

Stockton was a teacher in Indiana for two years before moving to Texas. He was a coach and a teacher when he was given the opportunity to move to administration.

“It wasn’t part of a long term plan, but it became the long term plan,” Stockton said.

Stockton served as a Principal at The Woodlands High School, and Assistant Superintendent before becoming the Superintendent.

When the incoming Superintendent Curtis Null was teaching at the Woodlands, Stockton was the principal during that time.

“Dr. Stockton was actually the person that encouraged me, when I was a teacher, to go back and get my administrative certification to become an administrator,” Null said. “He’s the one who encouraged me to do that.”

Stockton is not just concerned about student’s education, but about their wellbeing too. Conroe ISD and Lone Star collaborated to create a Health Clinic near Ben Milam Elementary. It provides students with health care that is more accessible.

“Accessibility is an issue for lots of places and the nearest health clinic is in Conroe, so the students have easier access to it,” Stockton said.

He’s overseen opening dozens of campuses, bond referendums, and the overall growth of the district. CISD Board President Melanie Bush said she’ll miss Stockton.

“I know Dr. Stockton will enjoy his retirement,” she said. “We will greatly miss him. Thank you Dr. Stockton for creating an atmosphere and an environment that is the best for all students in CISD.”

Even after 32 years in Conroe Stockton still enjoyed his time here and will continue to help the district.

“I’ve loved it (being in Conroe),” Stockton said. “I’ve loved every moment of it, most of all I love talking to students and teachers and community members so it was great.”

On June 4, Stockton’s role will transition to special advisor for Null, but he will be officially retired.