HUMBLE, Texas – The woman who inspired months of protest in Humble Independent School District was seated Monday as the district’s new superintendent.
Dr. Elizabeth Fagen has eight years of experience as a superintendent, and comes from Douglas County in Colorado. Following months of angry parents voicing their concerns about her hiring, Fagen said she isn’t letting the less-than-warm welcome discourage her.
"The bottom line for me in leadership is the only way to provide quality leadership is to bring people together and decide what we collectively want for our students and our school district."
Fagen said she is excited about the position and the direction she, administrators and parents are going in.
A small group of parents were very outspoken about the vouchers, teacher merit pay and charter school program — all things they don’t want to see in Humble, but feared Fagen supported.
HISD School Board members made it clear those are initiatives they don’t support either and argued social media played a major part in sparking the anger among parents.
"I understand with change comes apprehension and worry, and that conversations are going to happen," Fagen said.
Fagen is moving to the east Houston town with her husband and two daughters, who are both school-aged and will attend HISD schools. The girls are 6- and 11-years-old.
"I think as we spend time together, they will learn who I really am and what I'm really about. Hopefully, we can resolve any concerns that they may have," Fagen said.