Mansfield ISD selects first Black superintendent

By Amanda Rogers

Mansfield Record

People packed the Mansfield ISD board room, overflowing and filling the adjacent John Washington Professional Development Center to watch the school board make history on Tuesday night at the Dr. Jim Vaszauskas Center for Performing Arts.

By unanimous vote, Tiffanie Spencer was elected as the first Black superintendent of Mansfield ISD, the same district that faced angry mobs almost 70 years ago when three Black students tried to integrate the all-white high school.

“Dr. Spencer, it is my honor to announce you as the superintendent of schools for the Mansfield ISD,” board president Benita Reed said after the 7-0 vote.

A roar went up from the crowded room as people leaped to their feet for a standing ovation.

Reed then thanked outgoing superintendent Kimberley Cantu, who also received a standing ovation from the crowd.

“This board would like to thank you for your unwavering pursuit of excellence,” Reed said.

The search for a new superintendent began in August when Cantu announced that she would be leaving the district, which she has guided since January 2020. Spencer, who graduated from Mansfield High School, had been serving as Area Superintendent of Accountability and Special Populations in the Curriculum and Instruction Department. She was announced as the lone finalist for superintendent Feb. 2.

After the board meeting, trustees, school administration and members of the community were invited to a reception in the John Washington Professional Development Center, where members of the Legacy High School choir performed and refreshments were served.