Just a couple of months into retirement, former Cleveland ISD Superintendent Stephen McCanless has accepted a new role as a conservator with the Texas Education Agency (TEA), stepping into a statewide position that allows him to continue serving public education in a consulting capacity.
McCanless retired earlier this year after a 13-year tenure with Cleveland ISD, including three and a half years as superintendent. His career in education spans more than 30 years, and although he had planned for retirement, the opportunity to join the TEA’s conservator program was one he could not pass up.
“It is my great honor to be invited to serve Texas school districts and students in this capacity,” McCanless said. “I can further support and help districts be successful with challenges.”
As a conservator, McCanless will work approximately three to four days a week, supporting school districts that are under TEA oversight due to issues related to governance, academics, finance, or other areas of concern. The TEA appoints conservators under provisions of the Texas Education Code when a district receives an “Accredited-Probation” rating, fails to comply with intervention plans, or requires direct state oversight to ensure the well-being of students and the public interest.
These appointments are generally open-ended.
“They might be up to a year or more until the districts get back on stable footing,” McCanless explained.
He added that most of his assignments will likely be in Southeast Texas, though he is prepared to serve in other regions as needed.
Despite taking on a new role, McCanless and his wife, Phyllis—who also recently retired—plan to continue living in Cleveland. The position offers him the flexibility to remain rooted in the community while contributing to efforts across the state.
“This is a chance to give back in a different way, using the experience I’ve gained over the years to help districts work through challenges and find stability,” he said.