Burns recognized, as search for new superintendent narrows

By BRITTANY FHOLER

Cove Leader-Press

During the recognition portion of Tuesday’s regular CCISD board of trustees meeting, the board presented CCISD Superintendent Joseph Burns with a clock to commemorate his retirement, effective at the end of the month. 

Burns announced in September he would retire as of Dec. 31, citing a desire to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren. 

Following his announcement, the CCISD board of trustees employed the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Executive Search Services to assist with the search for a replacement. TASB’s firm accepted applications through Nov. 7. 

During Tuesday’s regular meeting, Board President Joan Manning stated that one of as of Tuesday, the board had narrowed it down to three applicants. 

Manning said the board intended to have a decision made and a finalist applicant selected by December 17, with approximately three weeks following allowing the finalist to accept or deny in compliance with state law. She said that a public announcement of the lone finalist would be scheduled for January 9, 2025.  

Burns addressed a packed room of district staff and community members at Tuesday’s meeting after he accepted a clock gift to commemorate his retirement and after encouragement from Manning. 

“Copperas Cove has been wonderful to my family and I,” Burns said. “I have had the tremendous opportunity that few people achieve in their lifetime, and that’s to work for one of the finest employers across the state of Texas, and with some of the most exceptional people that I’ve ever had the opportunity to meet or work with. I look around this room, and I see folks that have been here since day one.  Rita and Felix Alaniz, I came to know them in an ER, actually an ICU room, when Felix had a heart issue right after I got here. It’s an honor and privilege to be a part of this. Thank you, Copperas Cove, for all you’ve done for my family and me.”

Burns’ last day is December 31. He has served in Texas public education for 32 years, with the last 13 years being in Copperas Cove.