Supt. McCanless announces retirement, leaving Cleveland ISD

After more than three decades in education—13 of which were spent with Cleveland ISD, including 3.5 years as superintendent—Stephen McCanless is stepping down as the district’s leader, effective Friday, Jan. 31.

McCanless, known for his commitment to Cleveland ISD, expressed both gratitude and mixed emotions about his departure, stating that every strong leader must recognize when it is time to “exit stage right.” He believes that time has now come for him.

At a meeting on Monday, Jan. 27, the Cleveland ISD Board of Trustees discussed the terms of a settlement agreement to buy out the remaining two years of McCanless’s contract. While the details of the agreement were not disclosed, McCanless emphasized that his decision to retire was made with the best interests of the district in mind.

To ensure a smooth transition, the board will appoint an interim superintendent until a formal search for a new superintendent is conducted. McCanless will continue consulting with the interim on key matters to maintain continuity in district leadership. Deputy Superintendent John Fritts will also remain in his role.

Board President Willie Carter praised McCanless for his leadership, particularly as Cleveland ISD continues to be among the fastest-growing school districts in Texas.

“Mr. McCanless will be hard to replace. I think he did an amazing job as superintendent,” Carter said. “I know this was a hard decision for him as he has been an educator for 30-plus years. He has been very dedicated to Cleveland ISD and the Cleveland community, and I feel he believes he made the right decision for him and his family.”

Reflecting on his tenure, McCanless told Bluebonnet News that he is proud of several major accomplishments achieved under his leadership.

Some of the key milestones include:

• Adopting “The Cleveland ISD Way” and completing the CISD organizational charter in 2021
• Cutting $800,000 in expenditures and revising the initial design of the CISD administration building in December 2021
• Opening the Hal McClelland Sports Complex in January 2022
• Enhancing safety initiatives, including implementing random metal detector and drug dog checks starting in February 2022
• Naming two new athletic directors and providing all full-time staff with a $500 bonus in May 2022
• Opening four new campuses in August 2022 to accommodate the district’s rapid growth
• Breaking ground on the new administration building in October 2022
• Ensuring all full-time staff received $2,000 bonuses in November 2022
• Raising starting teacher salaries significantly to help recruit and retain teaching staff

While retirement may bring opportunities for extended vacations with his wife, Phyllis, who is also retired from education, McCanless already has new challenges on the horizon. He has scheduled multiple speaking engagements, where he will appear on nationwide radio shows and speak at conferences to share the insights and lessons he learned during his time at Cleveland ISD.

In a heartfelt letter to his staff on Tuesday, Jan. 28, McCanless invited them to stay in touch and asked them to reflect on the district’s progress and future.

“Reflect on where we were, where we are now, and where Cleveland ISD will be in the years to come,” he wrote. “We have accomplished many great successes, and I look forward to reading about the great things I know will be coming with the work the board will do with new leadership… I am going to miss each and every one of you. Be good, work hard, and remember what I always told you: These kids need you, look up to you, and depend on you to make their lives better.”