MISD board officially transitions to a majority board of trustees

During the Jan. 13 Regular Board Meeting, Marlin ISD sworn in four members to the Board of Trustees and one member to the Board of Managers to signal the successful transition to a seven-member school board for the first time since 2016.

Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Darryl J. Henson, and after four years of diligent work that led to improved student outcomes, Marlin ISD has transitioned from a majority of state-appointed Board Managers to a majority of locally elected and appointed Board Trustees. This transition empowers our community to play a vital role in shaping the district’s future through local leadership and governance.

“This transition signifi es an important milestone for Marlin ISD,” Commissioner Mike Morath said. “Through diligent oversight and the collaboration between the Board of Managers and Superintendent Henson, Marlin ISD has made substantial improvements in both academics and governance. I am confi dent the governing body of Marlin ISD will continue to propel the district forward and allow for a successful resumption of duties for the elected trustees.”

Misty Ehlers, Winnette Outland, Sharon Tomlinson, and Debra Trotter were appointed to districts 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. Kathleen Barrett was appointed by Commissioner Morath as a Board Manager. Byrleen Terry officially transitioned from a Board Manager to her elected seat as an At-Large member of the Board of Trustees. 

As required by statute, Commissioner Morath will continue to designate elected members of the Board of Trustees to replace Board of Managers members until the appointment of the Board of Managers expires and the governing body is comprised entirely of elected trustees. The appointment of the MISD Board of Managers is set to expire on Jan. 31, 2026.

In January 2017, Commissioner Morath appointed a five-member Board of Managers to lead Marlin ISD in response to the district receiving fi ve consecutive years of unacceptable academic accountability ratings. 

In January 2019, Commissioner Morath extended the placement of the Board due to a lack of improvement in the district’s 2017 and 2018 accountability ratings, which increased the count to seven consecutive years of unacceptable performance.

Marlin ISD has achieved signifi cant academic progress since May 2020, culminating in the highest statewide academic growth in 2022. This success is further evidenced by Marlin Elementary’s designation as a National Demonstration School and Marlin ISD’s recognition as a State Demonstration District by the National Alliance of Black School Educators. 

These achievements, including the regaining of the district’s Accreditation status, have led to Dr. Henson being honored as the current Region 12 Superintendent of the Year and a Top 5 Finalist for Texas Superintendent of the Year.

The Marlin Democrat

251 Live Oak St
Marlin, TX 76661
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