Elizabeth Fagen, current superintendent of Humble ISD in Texas, is under the lens as one of the five finalists for the top education job in Washoe County, Nevada, despite recent controversy. Fagen has been at Humble ISD's helm since 2016 but faced criticism after her husband, the district's former athletic director, became involved in a Title IX investigation that concluded with a recommendation for his termination, according to Houston Chronicle.
The This Is Reno report indicates that the search firm McPherson and Jacobson has highlighted the importance of community input in the decision-making process. "We have assembled a strong group of candidates for this important position—both locally, and from outside the area—and we look forward to introducing them to the community at upcoming public events," said Walter Cooper of the firm.
Fagen's application to Nevada follows the turbulent developments involving her husband, Troy Kite, who retired after an investigation reported by Houston Chronicle alleged he fostered an "inappropriate 'locker-room' atmosphere." In addition, the lengthy investigation reportedly cost the district as much as $800,000. Despite recusing herself from all matters pertaining to the investigation on May 4, 2023, some community members fear that Fagen couldn't be entirely separated from the situation given her marital ties.
Meanwhile, Fagen promotes her qualifications and readiness for the Washoe County position, stressing her long career and commitment to community integration. "I have almost 16 years experience as superintendent… In each case, I moved my family, purchased a home and we became active members of the community," Fagen stated in her application cover letter, now publicly accessible on the district's website. Yet, some Humble ISD stakeholders have expressed desire for transparency, and concerns linger over the handling of the Title IX investigations and subsequent costs, which a board member claimed might have reached $800,000 as of April 2024, as the Houston Chronicle reported.
The other candidates in the running for the Washoe County superintendent post include both local and out-of-state prospects, with two Washoe County School District employees, and superintendents from Fort Myers, Florida, and Little Rock, Arkansas. Interviews and community interactions for the finalists are scheduled from April 24-26, including a public event at Wooster High School with live-streamed Q&A sessions, as noted by This Is Reno. Despite the backdrop of controversy, the Washoe County School District's board president has voiced support for Fagen's pursuit of the opportunity, suggesting her departure for Nevada could be imminent.
