SAN ANTONIO — Northside ISD Superintendent John Craft announced Tuesday that he will retire in January 2027, ending a public education career of more than 25 years and prompting the district to begin planning for new leadership.
Craft, who has led Northside Independent School District since February 2023, announced his retirement in a statement released by the district.
“Serving Northside ISD has been the privilege of a lifetime,” Craft said.
Northside ISD serves approximately 99,000 students and operates more than 100 schools across Bexar County.
Before joining Northside, Craft served as superintendent of the Killeen Independent School District and the Hamilton Independent School District.
During his tenure at Northside, the district expanded open enrollment opportunities and implemented measures in response to Texas’ school voucher program. The district also addressed declining enrollment, budget deficits and discussions about potential campus consolidations.
Craft’s retirement follows other recent leadership changes among San Antonio’s largest school districts. Sean Maika departed from North East Independent School District within the past six months, while Jaime Aquino left San Antonio Independent School District during the same period.
The three districts have faced similar challenges, including declining student enrollment and multimillion-dollar budget shortfalls.
In addition, Milton Rob Fields is scheduled to retire this year after the board of Judson Independent School District terminated his contract in April. The district cited financial management issues, academic performance concerns and safety violations.
Northside ISD officials said the board of trustees is expected to discuss a transition plan during its June 9 meeting. Craft’s retirement will take effect in January 2027.
