LONGVIEW (KYTX) -- Dr. James Wilcox announced his retirement as superintendent in December. But Longview ISD school board members last night hired him as interim superintendent while they find a replacement. CBS 19's Abby Broyles spoke with Dr. Wilcox and the school board president today about what's next for the district.
Dr. James Wilcox says he's happy to fill the gap and lend his experience until the school board can find a new superintendent at Longview ISD.
"I think we've made some great accomplishments here in the district," Wilcox said.
After five years holding the district's top job, Wilcox retired December 31st.
Monday night, the board of trustees rehired him to serve as interim superintendent. Tuesday, he was back on the job.
"Being around the great students and the success of our students here just makes every day at work something to look forward to," Wilcox said.
Wilcox will help the board members in their search for a new permanent chief.
"We decided it would make a more seamless transition to a new permanent superintendent if we could get Dr. Wilcox to help guide the district, help us find a new superintendent," Board President Sam Satterwhite said.
President Sam Satterwhite is retiring from the board in June. He wants the new board to choose Wilcox's permanent replacement.
"I think it is critical that the chemistry be there for a new superintendent, a working relationship, with the interview process and moving forward," Satterwhite said.
And with Wilcox serving as interim chief, Satterwhite says the district will save more than $100,000 this year.
Wilcox agreed to a $100,000 contract, half what he made before.
And the district doesn't have to pay for his retirement benefits.
"Taxpayer dollars don't fund retirement benefits so LISD is not paying Dr. Wilcox's retirement and we no longer have to contribute to his retirement"
Wilcox's retirement benefits are funded Through the teacher retirement system. And retirement is coming for Wilcox, just no yet.
"I felt honored and blessed that the board of trustees asked me to come back and serve as their interim," Wilcox said.
THE district has not settled on a timeline for hiring a permanent superintendent.@
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