Successors for executive director positions announced ahead of 2026-27 school year

Leadership transitions include two internal candidates and one external hire as the district fills existing positions through planned succession and leadership development efforts.

Midlothian ISD has selected three experienced educational leaders to fill existing executive director positions that will become vacant this summer. The Board of Trustees approved the recommendations at a special meeting on June 1. The early announcement ensures continuity of leadership in three existing executive director positions and assists the district in preparing for a strong start to the upcoming school year. 

The process of filling the three roles reflects the district’s commitment to developing and cultivating leaders from within, while continuing to attract accomplished professionals whose experiences bring strength to the district.  

Dr. Amanda Rodgers has been named Executive Director of Elementary Education, succeeding Becki Krsnak who is returning to higher education. A 17-year Midlothian ISD educator and leader, Rodgers has served the district as principal of Midlothian High School, Dieterich Middle School, and T.E. Baxter Elementary, as well as assistant principal at Frank Seale Middle School. She is known across the district as a relational leader with a proven record of building high-performing teams and campus systems that improve student outcomes while strengthening parent engagement.

Most recently, Rodgers has led Midlothian High School to significant academic gains, increasing the campus accountability rating from 83 to 92 while helping achieve a 99 percent College, Career and Military Readiness (CCMR) rate for the 2025 and 2026 graduating classes.

“It has been one of the greatest honors of my career to serve Midlothian ISD students, staff and families as a campus leader at the elementary, middle, and high school levels,” Rodgers said. “Those experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the important role each stage of a child’s educational journey plays in preparing them for future success. I am excited for the opportunity to continue to serve MISD and support our elementary leaders and campuses as we continue to build these strong foundations for every student.”

John Allen has been selected as Executive Director of Technology Services. He succeeds Joe Williams, who is retiring as executive director. Allen’s career spans both education and technology leadership. His unique combination of classroom experience and technical expertise brings a deep understanding of the technology systems required to support a growing school district. A trained Cisco Networking Academy instructor and longtime technology leader, Allen has supported Midlothian ISD’s technology ecosystem for more than two decades. He has supported network infrastructure, instructional technology platforms, security and access control systems, device deployment, online assessment, and districtwide technology training. His experience provides an understanding of technical systems that operate behind the scenes and the instructional tools teachers and students rely on in the classroom.

“It has been an immense privilege to serve MISD for the past 23 years,” Allen said. “My experiences have allowed me to support both the instructional and operational sides of our district, giving me a deep understanding of how technology can enhance learning, improve efficiency and strengthen the services we provide. I am excited to continue serving MISD in this new role and to work alongside our incredible technology team to ensure our students and staff continue to have the reliable, innovative tools and support they need to succeed.” 

Joining Midlothian ISD is Amelia McMillen, who has been named Executive Director of Specialized Learning. She is succeeding Shannon Thompson who is transitioning into a leadership role outside of K-12 public education.

McMillen currently serves as Director of Special Education Academics and Instructional Programs for Fort Worth ISD and previously served as Director of Special Education and Assistant Director of Special Services in Burleson ISD. Her career also includes leadership experience as a principal and assistant principal, counselor, and teacher. She has expertise in leading special education, Section 504 services, intervention systems, and specialized learning programs. 

“My heart is full of gratitude and excitement as I join the Midlothian ISD family as Executive Director of Specialized Learning,” McMillen said. “I look forward to serving alongside dedicated educators, students, and families to create opportunities for all learners to thrive. Together, we will continue fostering an inclusive culture where every student is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.”

Superintendent Dr. David Belding said the executive director selections demonstrate both the strength of the district’s internal leadership development programs and efforts, while sustaining its commitment to retaining as well as attracting exceptional talent.

“One of the greatest indicators of a strong school system is its ability to attract talented professionals who align with its values and then retain and continually develop those exceptional leaders,” Belding said. “Amanda, John and Amelia each bring to their respective roles, unique experiences, proven leadership, and a demonstrated commitment to serving students. Together, they represent the strength of our leadership pipeline and our continued commitment to building an exceptional team in Midlothian ISD.  We are excited to welcome them into these important leadership roles and are confident they will build upon the strong foundations already established within the departments they will serve.”

Rodgers, Allen and McMillen will officially step into their new roles on July 1, 2026 in preparation for a strong start to the 2026-27 school year.