Navarro Independent School District

GERONIMO, TX - August 15, 2025 - Navarro ISD kicked off the new school year with a two-day orientation on July 31 and August 1, welcoming 54 new professional educators to the district. The new hires include not only teachers, but also bus drivers, maintenance, custodial, and other educational support professionals, reflecting the district’s significant growth.

Led by Dr. David Kauffman, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and School Leadership, day one of orientation served as a comprehensive introduction to the district’s mission and culture. Superintendent Dr. Epley opened the event with a "State of the District" address, thanking the new employees for choosing Navarro ISD and officially welcoming them to the Panther Family.

Dr. Epley attributed the district's growth to its reputation as a "destination district," highlighting a community fiercely supportive of their students and the people who work to provide the best education and learning environment for them. With a commitment from the community to help Navarro’s teachers and staff, an emphasis on academic growth, competitive athletics, expanding arts and career and technology programs, and competitive wages in a district that is financially stable, top talent is drawn to become a member of the Panther Family. With a projected enrollment of over 3,000 students this year, the district now employs 409 staff members. Dr. Epley also stressed that the district's greatest strength is its people. She emphasized that Navarro ISD is committed to recruiting top talent to best serve its students and the community. "Our number one priority," she stated, "is to recruit, maintain, coach, and retain high-quality teachers and staff to support student outcomes."

The orientation provided new staff with a thorough understanding of the district’s operational processes, hearing from department leaders and various support teams. This session provided crucial information on the resources and support systems available to them as they begin their roles.

New employees praised the orientation, with one saying, “Went great, loved putting faces with names and being introduced to the important staff members.” Another commented on the content, stating, “The breakdown of everything was extremely in depth and I enjoyed it.” The professional nature of the speakers was also noted: “Great presentation and very professional speakers.” New hires also shared that they felt welcomed and valued, with one noting, “I love knowing that I'm seen as a valuable and wanted member of this community.”

Day two, led by Chief Academic Officer Wendy McMullen, shifted the focus to academics and curriculum. New faculty members received an in-depth introduction to the district’s academic services and were introduced to key curriculum leaders. This session was designed to equip them with the knowledge and tools necessary to deliver high-quality instruction aligned with the district's goals for student outcomes.

The new educators also appreciated the focus on teaching strategies and collaboration. One new teacher said, “I loved the instructional strategies used and the different kinds of ways to increase teacher engagement,” while another shared, “I felt like we spent time really getting to connect with the other new teachers on campus today!” The sense of community was a common theme, with one attendee stating, “I learned how involved everyone is and how everyone wants you and the students to succeed.”

The successful two-day event marks an exciting start to the school year for Navarro ISD, as the district expands its team to meet the needs of its growing student population.