SAN ANTONIO — The North East Independent School District has officially entered a new era of leadership with the appointment of Anthony Jarrett as superintendent of schools, following a unanimous vote by the district’s Board of Trustees. Jarrett had served as interim superintendent since January and was formally named to the permanent position after completing the state’s required waiting period.
Jarrett takes the helm of one of Texas’ largest school districts, serving more than 56,000 students across dozens of campuses throughout North San Antonio. His appointment follows the departure of former superintendent Dr. Sean Maika, who announced his resignation in late 2025 after more than six years leading the district.
For many within NEISD, Jarrett’s promotion represents continuity and stability. Before becoming interim superintendent, he served as the district’s Chief Instructional Officer and was a key member of the executive leadership team. He joined NEISD in 2019 after spending years in Northside ISD as a teacher, principal, and administrator. Overall, he brings more than 25 years of public education experience to the role.
Board members praised Jarrett’s leadership during his months as interim superintendent and cited his deep understanding of the district’s culture and academic priorities as major factors in their decision. The selection continues a pattern of promoting leaders from within the organization, a strategy NEISD has relied upon during previous superintendent transitions.
Jarrett assumes leadership at a time when public education faces significant challenges. Like many Texas school districts, NEISD continues to navigate enrollment shifts, state accountability requirements, school funding concerns, and evolving legislative mandates. Earlier this year, the district also found itself in a dispute with the Texas Education Agency regarding implementation of a statewide student cellphone policy.
Supporters say Jarrett’s extensive instructional background positions him well to keep student achievement at the forefront while addressing operational and financial challenges. During his time as interim superintendent, he emphasized collaboration with teachers, staff, parents, and community members while maintaining a focus on academic excellence.
His appointment is also historically significant. Jarrett is believed to be the first Black superintendent in NEISD’s nearly 80-year history, marking a milestone for one of San Antonio’s most prominent public school systems.
As the 2026-27 school year approaches, families, educators, and community leaders will be watching closely to see how Jarrett shapes the district’s future. With a reputation as a servant leader and educator-first administrator, he begins his tenure with the advantage of already knowing the district, its schools, and the community he now leads.
For North East ISD, the transition represents not just a change in leadership, but the beginning of a new chapter built on familiar foundations and a vision for continued growth.