After a lengthy process of gathering stakeholder input, a nationwide search which included the review of 35 applicants and a comprehensive interview process of the top applicants, the Eanes ISD School Board is pleased to announce Kirk Koennecke as the lone finalist for Superintendent of Eanes Independent School District. Koennecke would succeed Superintendent Dr. Jeff Arnett, who retired in July.
Mr. Koennecke is a veteran education leader with 30 years of service to students, having worked at every level of public education, with experiences as a teacher, coach, advisor, union representative, assistant principal, athletic director, principal and CEO. Koennecke is completing his 10th year as a superintendent, previously serving both Indian Hill EVSD, and Graham LSD in Ohio. He was named the National Association of School Superintendents (NASS) National Superintendent of the Year in 2023.
Koennecke earned his Education Specialist degree from Wright State University; his Master of Arts in Education Administration from John Carroll University; his Master of Science in Sports Administration from Miami University of Ohio; and his Bachelor of Science in Education from The Ohio State University. He serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and he volunteers as a trustee for several governance boards, including the Ohio State University’s Education College Alumni Board.
Koennecke and his wife Susie, the former Director of the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, have volunteered for a range of causes over the years. They have five children and two grandchildren.
Eanes ISD Board President, Kim McMath, believes Koennecke is a great fit to serve the district as its next leader.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am excited to welcome Mr. Kirk Koennecke and his wife, Susie, to the Eanes community. Mr. Koennecke was chosen as the lone finalist for the next superintendent from a strong group of candidates and he will bring his enthusiasm, expertise and experience to Eanes ISD. The Board of Trustees looks forward to working with Mr. Koennecke for the benefit of our students and staff.” said McMath.
Koennecke is excited to work with the School Board, parents, staff, students and the Eanes ISD community on a shared vision of providing the very best educational experiences for all students.
“I am thrilled to join this great school district, and to serve the amazing students, families, educators and the broader community of Eanes ISD. Thank you to everyone who participated in this process. I am deeply honored and humbled the Board of Trustees has selected me to lead the finest public schools in Texas, and one of the elite districts in America. I look forward to working alongside our world class staff to ensure every student receives a personalized education to lead their future.” said Koennecke.
State law requires a 21-day waiting period after the finalist is announced before the Board can enter into a contract with the candidate. The Board is expected to vote on the final selection at its Dec. 9 regular board meeting.