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