Karnes City ISD will be shaking a few things up on the administrative end during the next school year.

The biggest change at the school will be in the top spot as Dr. Eli Casey will be leaving his interim position as superintendent to make way for new arrival Frances Penland who will begin work July 1.

A 28-year veteran in public schooling, Penland comes to Karnes City from a principal’s position in Marlin.

"I hope that we can continue to improve our academic performance for our students and work together as a team to give our kids all the experiences they deserve," she said during an interview June 4. "I’m not looking at any specific changes, I just need some time to evaluate and work with the team and see what the district has in mind. Everyone’s been very nice. It’s a very professional team."

Also, high school Principal Harold Steele will be leaving his position July 1 to fill a newly-created position, "dean of students." Steele and Penland both said the specific job duties of the position are still being ironed out, but indicated it would be a district-wide administrative job.

"He’s going to be doing a district-wide job in some specialty areas. We’re working out some of the job description," Penland said.

Taking his place as high school principal, junior high Principal Jeanette Winn will be overseeing both the high school and junior high beginning July 1. Penland expressed confidence Winn would be able to accomplish the duties required for each campus.

"She’ll be able to oversee both of the campuses, which is basically one campus which shares a cafeteria," Penland said adding that Winn’s office will be located in the high school.

Elementary Principal Doug Wozniak will move to the assistant principal position at the high school. Taking his place at the elementary school will be the current director of curriculum, Julie Braun.