As I complete my first month serving the Goose Creek CISD community, I find myself both grateful and inspired by what I have experienced across our district and throughout our community.
One of the greatest joys of stepping into this role has been the opportunity to listen and learn. Through campus visits, facility tours, and conversations with students, teachers, staff members, parents, and community partners, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the heart of this district. Everywhere I go, I see pride in our schools and a shared commitment to ensuring every child feels valued and challenged to grow.
I have been welcomed into classrooms filled with engaged learners and dedicated educators who are passionate about helping students succeed. Connecting with students in both structured settings and everyday conversations has offered meaningful insight into their curiosity and eagerness to learn. Their voices remind me why our work matters and why cultivating a strong sense of belonging is essential for every child we serve.
Throughout our community, I have been encouraged by the strength of our partnerships. Connecting with local leaders and organizations, including Rotary, Kiwanis, the Chamber of Commerce, and area businesses, has reinforced a deep belief in public education and the future of Goose Creek students. These relationships are powerful, and together we can continue building opportunities that strengthen workforce readiness and civic engagement.
My commitment is to continue listening, learning, and leading with purpose as we serve students and families. I look forward to ongoing campus visits, expanding conversations with families and community partners, and ensuring that our decisions reflect the voices and needs of those we serve. The work ahead is exciting, and I am honored to walk alongside this remarkable community as we continue growing Giants.
Thank you for the warm welcome and for the opportunity to serve such a proud and dedicated district.
Joe Rodriguez, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District
Goose Creek Giants,
As we approach the start of a new year and prepare to welcome 2026, I recognize that we are entering the new year during a time of deep sorrow. The recent tragedy at Sterling High School has created a permanent void in the lives of Andrew’s family members and close friends while simultaneously impacting the entire Goose Creek school community.
My thoughts are with everyone affected, and I want you to know that supporting our students and staff through this difficult time will remain a priority. Our schools are committed to being places of compassion, stability, and care, especially when our community is grieving.
As a school community, we must continue to help students understand that their actions matter and that the choices they make can have lasting impacts on themselves and others. As a school district, we also have a responsibility to continually reflect on our practices, identify areas for improvement, and remove obstacles that may limit our ability to keep students, staff, and visitors safe.
We are conducting a mid-year review of our safety protocols and gathering feedback to inform improvements to our practices and responses to certain disciplinary situations. In addition, we are reviewing options for an independent investigation to evaluate the District’s actions before, during, and after the incident. This investigation is intended to provide the school board and community with the information they deserve.
Last week, I attended a meeting where the newly formed Baytown Student Safety Coalition shared its perspectives on how the District can better address student fears and concerns. I was proud of the thoughtfulness, courage, and passion students demonstrated as they expressed their desire to be part of the solution. The District will be scheduling follow-up meetings with the coalition’s student leadership and other student groups to ensure we are listening, learning, and taking meaningful steps on behalf of those we serve.
With twenty-seven years in public education, I have learned that the true strength of a district lies in its people. Goose Creek CISD is filled with dedicated educators, resilient students, and a community that stands together in both celebration and hardship. As we move forward into 2026, we will remain focused on student well-being, safety, and academic excellence, while honoring the important work already underway across our campuses.
I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the next Superintendent of Goose Creek CISD. Beginning this new chapter alongside such a strong and proud district is a responsibility I do not take lightly. I am sincerely thankful to the Goose Creek CISD Board of Trustees for their unanimous support and for placing their trust in me to lead this exceptional school community.
Thank you for welcoming me to Goose Creek CISD as we begin a new year together. I am humbled to serve this community and excited to work alongside you as we continue to grow Giants.
Joe Rodriguez, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District