Tarkington ISD and Superintendent Dr. Elna Davis have jointly announced that Dr. Davis will resign from her position effective June 30, 2026, marking the end of a four-year tenure that district leaders say was defined by a focus on student achievement, fiscal responsibility, and community service. The decision was made by the board at a special-called meeting on Tuesday, June 10.
The payout to Dr. Davis will exceed $600,000 and the District will incur penalties from the state, making the total loss to the District in the neighborhood of $1 million.
In a statement released by the district, the Board of Trustees recognized Dr. Davis for her leadership and dedication to the students and families of Tarkington ISD.
“Dr. Davis has served this District through a complex season of many changes, and we wish her well in the next chapter of her career,” said Board President Lane Gulledge. “Change always brings uncertainty, but the Board sees this transition as an opportunity to continue moving forward; we take this work seriously on behalf of our students, families, and community.”
Dr. Davis expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the district and reaffirmed her commitment to the values that guided her leadership.
“It has been an honor to serve the students, educators, and families of Tarkington ISD,” Dr. Davis said. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together and remain grateful for the individuals who share a commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.”
During her tenure, the district reported gains in several key performance indicators. Overall student performance on the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) improved from the 2024-25 school year despite more rigorous state achievement standards implemented in 2023. Graduation rates increased from 93.9 percent to 98.3 percent, while College, Career and Military Readiness rose from 71.6 percent to 99.1 percent. District leaders also highlighted refinements to career and technical education programs and significant taxpayer savings achieved through the early repayment of district debt, resulting in a lower tax rate.
District officials emphasized that these accomplishments were the result of collective efforts by students, staff, families, and community members working together to advance the district’s mission.
At Tuesday night’s Board of Trustees meeting, Dr. Davis delivered emotional closing remarks reflecting on her time in Tarkington and the relationships built throughout her service.
“As I reflect on my time in Tarkington, my heart is filled with gratitude,” she said. “Four years ago, I accepted the opportunity to serve as Superintendent of Tarkington ISD with a simple commitment: to do what was best for students and to lead with integrity, purpose, and hope. It has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life to serve this district and this community.”
She thanked current and former board members, district employees, families, community members, and students for their support and dedication.
“To our teachers, administrators, support staff, and employees, thank you for your dedication to children,” Dr. Davis said. “Your work matters more than you will ever know. The impact you make extends far beyond classrooms and campuses, reaching generations.”
Addressing students directly, she added, “You are the reason we do this work, and you are the future of this community.”
Dr. Davis also spoke about the personal growth she experienced during her time as superintendent, noting that both successes and challenges shaped her leadership journey.
“This season has strengthened me in many ways,” she said. “It has deepened my faith, refined my perspective, and reminded me that even when we do not fully understand the path before us, God is always at work. I have learned that leadership is measured not only by moments of celebration but also by how we respond in seasons of challenge.”
As she prepares to leave the district, Dr. Davis said she does so with optimism for the future.
“I leave with gratitude, not resentment; with appreciation, not regret; and with hope for what lies ahead,” she said. “My prayer is that Tarkington ISD continues to thrive, continues to unite around its students, and continues creating opportunities that allow every child to discover their gifts and fulfill their potential.”
The Board of Trustees is expected to announce plans for interim leadership and the search for the district’s next superintendent in the coming weeks. District leaders said both the board and Dr. Davis remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining stability for students, staff, and the community.
Dr. Davis concluded her remarks by thanking the community for the opportunity to serve and expressing confidence in the district’s future.
“Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving alongside you,” she said. “May God bless each of you, may He bless the students and staff of Tarkington ISD, and may He continue to guide this district toward a bright and successful future.”
You all catch 1 million dollar loss with payout of 600k to former superintendent to be..wake up Tarkington and demand explanation special called meeting …what a bonus for the Prarie to pay out!!!!
Makes a person wonder what’s gonna happen with our school taxes. And our future taxes. smh…..
Dr. Elna sure has a nice smile. That’s a million dollar smile.
A special meeting? I’m curious about the back story to this. The resume for the time she was there looks great, why let her go knowing the financial burden.