as lone finalist for Dickinson ISD superintendent

The Dickinson Independent School District Board of Trustees unanimously voted April 22 to name Dr. Rebecca Brown as the lone finalist for Superintendent of Dickinson ISD. Dr. Brown has served in La Porte ISD for the past two years as Deputy Superintendent of Academics. She has been selected to assume the superintendent’s position following the upcoming retirement in June of Carla Voelkel, who has served Dickinson ISD for 11 years, including the past six years as superintendent.

Dr. Brown has been an educator for over 28 years. She began her career as an English Language Arts Reading/English as a Second Language teacher in Aldine ISD. Throughout her professional journey, she held various positions, including Literacy Skills Specialist, Curriculum Assistant Principal, Middle School Principal, and High School Principal. 

In 2014, she transitioned to Houston ISD, where she served as School Support Officer and Chief of Schools. Later, she joined Spring Branch ISD as Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction.

Dr. Brown’s career progression led her to the role of Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Spring ISD and eventually to her current position as Deputy Superintendent of Academics in La Porte ISD.

“I want to thank the Board of Trustees for their diligence as we conducted a comprehensive search for an innovative educational leader to fill the role of Superintendent,” Board President Corey Magliolo shared. “We are pleased to announce our lone finalist, Dr. Rebecca Brown, a seasoned and dynamic educator with extensive experience across various districts. We believe she fulfills the leadership qualities we are expecting of our Superintendent, and she will continue the transformative progress and forward momentum of our district.”

“As the lone finalist for Dickinson ISD, I am dedicated to recognizing and embracing the unique qualities of Gator Nation and our small-town community,” Dr. Brown emphasized. “My primary focus as Superintendent is to actively engage, attentively listen, and nurture meaningful relationships,” she reiterated. “Approaching leadership with humility, I understand that each community has its own dynamics and aspirations. Just as every child is unique, so too is every district. Therefore, I am committed to tailoring our strategies to meet the specific needs and aspirations of our students, staff, and the Gator Nation community.”

Reflecting on her commitment to students, Dr. Brown shared, “My passion lies in empowering every student to achieve their full potential. Through collaborative leadership, innovative programs, and an unwavering commitment to equity and excellence, I am dedicated to ensuring that every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college, career, and beyond.”

Dr. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Houston, a Master of Education and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Prairie View A&M University. She resides with her husband, Dr. Ron Brown, and their son RJ, along with their two beloved rescue Siberian huskies.

The state requires a 21-day waiting period before the lone finalist can sign a contract and assume the superintendent’s position. A Dickinson ISD Board of Trustees meeting is planned for Tuesday, May 14 to make the lone finalist selection official.