The Sherman ISD Board of Trustees is proud to announce interim superintendent Dr. Thomas O’Neal as the lone finalist for superintendent of schools and the district’s next leader. Trustees voted unanimously to name O’Neal as lone finalist during a special meeting on August 5.

Dr. Thomas O'Neal

Dr. O’Neal is an experienced school administrator with deep roots in the Sherman community, having previously served as principal of Fairview Elementary and Sherman High School. He is entering his 32nd year in education with past experience as a deputy superintendent, chief financial officer, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, assistant superintendent of human resources and high school principal in Anna ISD. He rejoined Sherman ISD in June 2022 as deputy superintendent.

Dr. O’Neal is widely respected for his collaborative leadership style, thoughtful approach to solving problems and ability to foster positive relationships with students, parents, staff and community members.  

“Dr. O’Neal is a longtime Bearcat, which gives him a deep understanding of our Bearcat legacy,” said Board President Wendy Vellotti. “Having previous experience at Sherman and then leaving and coming back gives him the outside experience that we need to keep moving our district forward.”

Texas state law requires school districts to implement a 21-day waiting period before an official contract may be offered. 

“I am excited to continue to serve in the community that has been my home for 26 years,” Dr. O’Neal said. “I look forward to strengthening existing relationships and forming new ones as we work together to help our students reach their full potential.”

Dr. O’Neal began his career as a high school science teacher in Lamesa and Midland ISDs. He holds a superintendent’s certificate and doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of North Texas, master’s degree from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin and bachelor’s degree from Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma. He is also certified as a Registered Texas School Business Administrator (RTSBA) through the Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO).

Dr. O’Neal has resided and been a part of the Sherman community since 1998. His wife, Jill, is the former principal at Crutchfield Elementary and former executive director of human resources for SISD. He is the proud father of Brittney and Bethany, both Sherman High alumni.