Dr. Darlene Callender has been named Cleburne ISD Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction following Board of Trustees action Monday night.

She comes to CISD from Dripping Springs ISD where she is currently serving in the same capacity.

Dr. Callender has served in the field of education for 26 years, ten of which were as a district administrator. Her district level positions include Curriculum Director in Decatur ISD and Mabank ISD, and most recently, her assistant superintendent position with Dripping Springs ISD.

Dr. Callender began her educational career as a teacher in Houston ISD, Alief ISD, and Cypress-Fairbanks ISD in the Houston area. She also served as an assistant principal in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD and a principal in Spring Branch ISD. She has worked in rural, urban, and suburban districts of varying sizes (2-A to 5-A). She has served economically advantaged, disadvantaged, diverse, and nondiverse students during her career.

Dr. Callender has earned degrees at the University of Houston (Bachelor of Science), Sam Houston State University (Master of Education), and the University of North Texas (Doctor of Education). She holds certifications as superintendent and supervisor in addition to her principal and teacher certifications.

Born in Fort Worth, Dr. Callender and her husband, David, are educators from families of educators. North Texas is home to them, and their children share their love of this area. They have a son, daughter, son-in-law, and two grandchildren.

Dr. Callender is committed to the success of all students and continually works with staff members to increase student achievement. During her doctoral studies, she completed research on long-term exemplary campuses in Texas. She hopes to use her experience and the results of her study as she works with CISD educators to provide the best educational opportunities for students.