Dr. Joe Lopez joined Kermit ISD in November 2019 as the Superintendent of Schools. Prior to joining Kermit ISD, he served as the Superintendent of Schools for Taft ISD. Under his leadership, Kermit ISD and Taft ISD made academic gains, improved the technology infrastructure and upgraded facilities in order to meet the needs of all students. Dr. Lopez has 23 years of experience serving as teacher, middle and high school assistant principal, principal at both the elementary and secondary level, and central office administrator. During his educational career, he has placed an emphasis on collaboration and communication with students, staff, parents, and the community. Prior to joining Taft ISD, he served as the Executive Director for State and Federal Programs in Mission CISD where he provided service and guidance to 24 campuses and approximately 16,000 students.

At each of his leadership positions, he has made it a priority to focus on student achievement while embracing the whole child philosophy. Together with his Campus Instructional Leadership Team (CILT) and other staff members, they developed a shared framework of systems to guide every critical decision. The same collaboration was also established in conjunction with parents and stakeholders in the community.

Dr. Lopez was selected and completed the prestigious year-long Thompson’s Executive Leadership Institute- Superintendents Academy through Education Service Center, Region 13 in Austin, Texas. The 20 thought leaders were selected because of their commitment to excellence in all aspects of school, governance, and community leadership. In September of 2014, Dr. Lopez was one of only 15 assistant superintendents and administrators from across the nation selected to participate in the prestigious year-long Superintendent Leadership Academy (SLA) through the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS).

Within the framework of servant leadership, Dr. Lopez has championed programs and initiatives that are focused on inclusion and developing a sense of belonging. Some of the many programs and initiatives include: Initiated and Implemented the 1st Full Immersion Computer Science Elementary School in Central and South Texas, Operation College Bound, Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools Program, “Ready Set, Read” Summer Literacy Program (provided home libraries for students), College and Career Signing Days, an Early Learning Academy, and implemented cost-saving measures to ensure a balanced budget while making financial resources available for student extra-curricular and organizational activities. Dr. Lopez’s goals have been and continues to be in developing a district culture where students, staff, and parents are nurtured, valued, and supported.

Dr. Lopez holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Public Management with a minor in English from Lindenwood University in Saint Charles, Missouri, a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Houston Baptist University, and an Ed.D. with a Specialization in Educational Leadership and Management through Capella University.

Dr. Lopez and his wife Michele have four children, two of which attend Kermit ISD.