It is with unthinkable sadness that we share the passing of Dr. David Hicks, former superintendent of Sherman ISD who united the community around a vision for a new state-of-the-art high school during his six-year tenure.

Dr. Hicks was the epitome of what it means to be a Bearcat. He focused on excellence at the highest levels in all things and expected the same from those around him. He was a teacher at his core, encouraging and guiding everyone from students to educators to parents and community leaders. 

“Our hearts are broken by the loss of Dr. David Hicks,” said Brad Morgan, president of the Sherman ISD Board of Trustees. “He was responsible for taking Sherman ISD to another level with facilities, curriculum, and the well being of our great staff. Today, there is a building block that is missing in Building Bearcats. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Tammy, and their family.”

Dr. Hicks was a friend to all and saw good in everyone he met. He was the ultimate includer, bringing together individuals of all backgrounds and seeking their opinions and counsel in decisions. He believed the school district belonged to the community, and he brought community members of all levels — from children to politicians — to engage in our schools. 

“Words cannot describe our feelings of loss over the passing of Dr. Hicks,” said Tyson Bennett, superintendent of Sherman ISD. “ Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tammy and the rest of his loving family. Dr. Hicks was so gracious, a servant at heart, and included everyone because he cared so much for others. He impacted all of us in amazing ways that will bless our district and community for generations. Dr. Hicks would always say, ‘Once a Bearcat, always a Bearcat.’ We will miss him so much.”

Dr. Hicks had 33 years of experience in education, starting his career as a teacher. Before becoming superintendent of Sherman ISD, he served as area superintendent of secondary programs in Denton ISD. He also worked as a principal, assistant principal and teacher in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD and Grapevine-Colleyville ISD.