Due to power outages and storm damage caused by Hurricane Beryl, Cleveland ISD has rescheduled an important board meeting. Originally set for Tuesday, July 9, the meeting will now be held on Monday, July 15, at 6 p.m. at the CISD Administration Building, 1901 E. Houston St.
This special-called meeting will address the controversial push by a faction of the Board of Trustees to remove Superintendent Stephen McCanless. The decision to oust McCanless first came to light after the June board meeting. Following an executive session, it was announced that four of the seven board members, including three new members and a former board member Wendy McNair, were in support of McCanless’s dismissal.
McCanless, who has served the district for 11 years, the last three as superintendent, said he was baffled by the move to remove him.
“I have not been made aware of any issues that would warrant such an action,” he said.
The timing of the rescheduled meeting coincides with significant community actions. A petition supporting Superintendent McCanless is currently being circulated, while another petition is being considered to seek a recall election of the four school board members supporting his removal.
If the board proceeds with McCanless’s removal, it could result in a significant financial burden for Cleveland ISD. McCanless’s contract, which expires in June 2027, could entitle him to a payout of up to $800,000. This amount does not include $90,000 for personal leave time, the amount that the District would incur for a new superintendent search, and legal expenses.
This potential expenditure comes at a time when Cleveland ISD is already facing financial constraints due to growth. The district’s attorneys and McCanless’s legal team would need to negotiate a final settlement, a process that could be complex and drawn-out, further challenging the district’s ability to attract a new superintendent.
I’d like to know where I can go to sign this petition to keep him and get rid of the board members who want him fired?