The Birdville Independent School District recently announced the selection of Dr. Walter Scott Davis as their new superintendent, following the retirement of Darrell Brown. Dr. Davis brings over 20 years of experience in education to Birdville ISD, having previously served as a high school principal, assistant superintendent, and deputy superintendent in neighboring districts. His hiring marks an exciting new chapter for the district as it looks to build on its successes.
About Birdville ISD
Birdville ISD is located in northeast Tarrant County, Texas and serves the communities of Haltom City, North Richland Hills, Watauga, and parts of Fort Worth, Richland Hills, and Hurst. With over 25,000 students across 33 campuses, Birdville ISD is one of the largest suburban school districts in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area.
The district’s mission is “to inspire and equip students to be lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens.” Birdville ISD has a diverse student population and offers a wide array of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and career pathways for students. The district has received numerous accolades for its fine arts programs, career and technology education, and academic achievement.
Key facts about Birdville ISD:
Student enrollment: | Over 25,000 |
Campuses: | 33 (20 elementary, 7 middle schools, 4 high schools, 2 alternative campuses) |
Racial/ethnic breakdown: | 43% Hispanic, 35% White, 14% African American, 5% Asian, 3% Other |
Economically disadvantaged: | 59% |
Per student spending: | $9,559 |
Teacher/student ratio: | 1:15 |
The superintendent search process
After serving as superintendent of Birdville ISD for 9 years, Darrell Brown announced his retirement effective at the end of the 2021-2022 school year. The district promptly initiated a national search for its next superintendent. The school board hired JG Consulting to assist with the search process and gathered input from parents, staff, students, and community members about desired qualities in a new superintendent.
A 17-member Superintendent Search Committee was formed to review applications, interview candidates, and recommend finalists to the Board of Trustees. The committee was comprised of parents, teachers, campus and district administrators, business leaders, and other community stakeholders. After a rigorous process involving over 40 applicants, the committee recommended two finalists to the Board in April 2022.
Key phases of the superintendent search process:
October 2021: | Darrell Brown announces retirement plans |
November 2021: | Board initiates superintendent search |
December 2021: | Community input sessions held |
January 2022: | JG Consulting hired to assist search |
February 2022: | Superintendent profile developed based on stakeholder input |
March 2022: | Position posted and applications accepted |
April 2022: | Search committee recommends 2 finalists |
May 2022: | Final interviews held with Board |
June 2022: | Dr. Walter Scott Davis approved as lone finalist |
Introducing Dr. Walter Scott Davis
On June 13, 2022, the Birdville ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved Dr. Walter Scott Davis as the lone finalist for superintendent. Per state requirements, the district had to wait 21 days before officially hiring and contracting with Dr. Davis. He began serving as superintendent on July 18, 2022.
Dr. Davis brings over 20 years of experience working in public education across Texas. He began his career in education as a high school math teacher and coach. He steadily progressed into campus leadership positions, serving as an assistant principal, principal, and director of secondary curriculum and instruction. For the past 5 years, he worked in central office administration as an assistant superintendent, associate superintendent, and deputy superintendent in districts comparable in size to Birdville ISD.
Throughout his career, Dr. Davis has been recognized for utilizing data to drive continuous improvement, developing strong teams, and building relationships with stakeholders. He holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University.
Key background on Dr. Walter Scott Davis:
Previous role: | Deputy Superintendent in Hays CISD |
Years in education: | 22 |
Hometown: | Teague, Texas |
Education: | B.S. in Mathematics, Texas A&M University M.Ed. in Educational Administration, UT Arlington Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, SFA State |
Areas of expertise: | Data-driven instruction, team building, community relations |
Awards/honors: | Region 12 Secondary Principal of the Year (2017) TASB Trailblazer Award (2018) Phi Delta Kappa Educator of the Year (2020) |
What are Dr. Davis’ priorities for Birdville ISD?
In interviews and public statements, Dr. Davis has outlined several priority areas he will focus on during his first year as superintendent:
Academic growth and achievement
Dr. Davis will work collaboratively with staff at all levels to conduct a deep analysis of student performance data and identify areas for growth. Key goals include improving STAAR scores, closing achievement gaps for at-risk groups, expanding enrollment in advanced academic programs like AP and dual credit, and ensuring every student graduates ready for college or career. Strategies may include differentiated instruction, data-driven interventions, and expanding career pathways.
Communication and community engagement
Strong communication and community involvement will be critical, especially coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Davis plans to enhance the district’s social media presence, develop a mobile app, and hold frequent in-person community forums. He will also work to strengthen partnerships with parents, businesses, and community organizations.
Supporting students’ social-emotional needs
Dr. Davis recognizes that academics are tied to students’ social-emotional wellbeing. He would like to expand mental health resources, anti-bullying programs, trauma-informed practices, and culturally responsive training for staff. This will contribute to a safe, supportive environment so every student can thrive.
Recruiting and retaining staff
Like many districts, Birdville has faced hiring challenges coming out of the pandemic. Dr. Davis will focus on creating a positive work culture, providing competitive pay and benefits, offering more training and growth opportunities, and elevating the district’s reputation to attract top teaching talent.
Facilities improvements
Several Bond 2023 projects are slated to upgrade aging facilities and accommodate enrollment growth. Dr. Davis will provide leadership on these projects and develop a long-range facilities master plan to meet future needs. Energy-saving initiatives are another priority.
What was the reaction to Dr. Davis’ hiring?
The appointment of Dr. Walter Scott Davis was met with widespread enthusiasm across the Birdville ISD community. Here are some reactions from key stakeholders:
Board of Trustees
Board President Brian Allen: “We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Davis to Birdville ISD. His proven track record, enthusiasm and dedication to students stood out during the search process. I’m confident he is the right leader to build on our district’s success.”
Parents
BISD Parent-Teacher Association President Karen Smith: “I’m excited for the experience and fresh perspective that Dr. Davis brings. I’m optimistic he will champion the needs of all students and work collaboratively with parents.”
Teachers
Birdville Education Association President Michelle Jones: “Dr. Davis impressed us with his knowledge of best practices in teaching and learning. Teachers are eager to partner with him to continuously improve outcomes for every child we serve.”
Principals
Birdville Secondary Principals Association Chair Jake Ellis: “Dr. Davis’ background as a teacher, coach and campus leader stood out to us. We feel he understands the complexities of campus leadership and will empower principals to drive success on their campuses.”
Business leaders
Birdville ISD Partners in Education President Craig Henry: “We’re pleased to see a leader like Dr. Davis who recognizes the key role of community partnerships and business engagement in preparing the workforce of tomorrow.”
Conclusion
The hiring of Dr. Walter Scott Davis marks an exciting new chapter for Birdville ISD. With his decades of experience and student-focused vision, Dr. Davis has the opportunity to build on the district’s strengths and lead continuous improvement. He will face challenges like recovering from pandemic disruptions, closing achievement gaps, and recruiting/retaining staff. However, with collaborative relationships across the district and community, Dr. Davis can successfully guide Birdville ISD to new heights of excellence. The Board of Trustees, parents, staff, and partners throughout the Birdville community enthusiastically welcome Dr. Davis to his new role. We look forward to an even brighter future for BISD under his leadership.