In a resounding show of confidence and community pride, the Cleveland ISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Tuesday, April 29, to name Dr. Glenn Barnes as the district’s next superintendent. The announcement, made during a packed school board meeting, was met with thunderous applause and a standing ovation from those in attendance.
Barnes, who previously served as principal of Cleveland High School, returns to lead the district he has long called home. Despite career moves that took him to other school districts, Barnes has maintained a residence in Cleveland and remained deeply connected to the community.
For Barnes, the appointment felt like a homecoming. As the vote was cast and the room erupted in cheers, he could not stop smiling. His deep ties to Cleveland ISD and the broader community made his selection feel personal for many in the room.
Board President Amanda Brooks, speaking on behalf of the trustees, captured the significance of the moment.
“This is a big moment for our district, bringing in a new leader isn’t just about filling a role, it’s about finding someone with the vision and dedication to help shape the future for our students, our staff, and our community,” she said. “Dr. Barnes, your time in Cleveland, your passion in public education, and your unwavering belief in what students can achieve have already made an impression on us. You see possibilities where others see limits. And most importantly, you believe in building relationships because strong schools start with strong connections between people.”
Brooks went on to reflect on the potential of the district and the leadership qualities Barnes brings to the role.
“Cleveland ISD is a district full of promise. We’re evolving, we’re diverse, and we’re proud of the direction we’re heading. But we also know the journey ahead won’t be without its challenges. That’s why we’re grateful to have you at the helm, someone who not only brings the skills and the strategy, but also the heart to lead us forward. Please know that as you begin this new chapter, you don’t walk alone. The board is here and ready to support you, collaborate with you, and work side by side to make sure every student at Cleveland ISD has access to a safe, supportive, and inspiring learning environment. We are excited to celebrate the wins with you, to face the hard decisions together, and to build a legacy we can all be proud of. So again, welcome, we’re delighted you’re here, and let’s get to work together,” Brooks said.
Before officially signing the necessary documents to make the appointment formal, Barnes expressed his deep gratitude to the board and the community.
“As I step into this role, I’m filled with optimism about the future we’re about to build together,” he said. “I know the passion that lives within the schools, within our community, the extraordinary talent of our educators, and the unwavering support from the parents and greater Cleveland community. It is this passion, this commitment to excellence that will provide the foundation for our students to be afforded the best educational opportunities.”
He also reflected on the success of Cleveland ISD graduates and the important role the district plays in shaping future leaders.
“Cleveland ISD graduates are mayors, police chiefs, district attorneys, educators, business owners,” he said. “They are the people who are making a lasting impact around our state and nation, and so I want us to just focus on tomorrows. What is ahead of us. We have an incredible amount of work ahead of us, work that will require collaboration, creativity and courage. While challenges may come, because they always do, I do not doubt that together we will rise to meet them, just as this community has always done.
“Lastly, just with a focus on students, there is no greater joy than watching a child learn. It’s like watching them take their first steps. It’s with that joy in mind that I am truly honored to serve you, work alongside you and to lead Cleveland ISD into the next chapter. I’m deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me as we focus on tomorrow. Remember, we are the village that loves, the village that supports, and the village that builds a brighter future for Cleveland ISD,” he said.
Dr. Barnes brings more than 25 years of experience in public education, beginning his career in 1997 as a high school social studies teacher. He has served in multiple leadership roles at both the campus and district levels. His time with Cleveland ISD spans several positions, including teacher, assistant principal, and principal. Under his leadership, Cleveland Middle School earned all seven Texas Education Agency distinctions, an honor awarded to only 5 percent of schools statewide.
Most recently, Barnes served as superintendent of Aransas Pass ISD, where he led efforts in strategic planning, leadership development, and financial stabilization. Prior to that, he worked as Assistant Superintendent of Leadership and Culture at Splendora ISD, where he implemented programs that improved districtwide culture and earned several Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase School Awards.
