Joshua ISD names Hickerson lone finalist for superintendent

The Joshua ISD board of trustees named Corey Hickerson as the lone finalist for superintendent during their Monday meeting.

Hickerson fills the role left vacant by Superintendent Fran Marek, who is retiring June 30. Beginning Jan. 1, Marek is serving as superintendent emeritus until that date.

A Joshua native, Hickerson has served as the district's chief administrative services officer since 2020. He is known as an innovative educator with a focus on the academic and personal achievement of every student in JISD, according to a JISD release. He has played a key role in engaging the Joshua community by building relationships and communicating with all the stakeholders in the district.

“After due diligence, we named Corey Hickerson as our lone finalist because he knows our community and schools,” JISD School Board President Ronnie Galbreath said. “He has worked with our teachers and students for over three years and we felt he was the best person for this position. His experience across all levels of public education was key to our decision.” 

Before Joshua, Hickerson served as a principal at Buffalo ISD, Rice ISD in Corsicana and Blooming Grove ISD. He graduated from Texas State University in 2008 with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology and exercise science. He received a Master of Business Administration in 2010 from Tarleton State University and his principal certificate in 2016 from Lamar University.

His experience ranges from teaching in secondary classrooms to leading both elementary and secondary levels as a principal. The campuses he oversaw were always rated highly and earned numerous state distinctions. 

“I am humbled and honored by the board’s decision to select me as their next superintendent of schools,” Hickerson said. “I will work diligently to serve the amazing students and staff of Joshua ISD. I will continue to wear my blue and white with pride as we have a lot to look forward to in Joshua ISD.”

State law requires a 21-day waiting period after a school board names a lone finalist before the future superintendent can sign a contract.