Winona ISD Superintendent Damenion Miller is pictured in April 2024. Miller has moved on to serve at Crockett ISD. (Jennifer Scott/Tyler Morning Telegraph File)

WINONA — Winona ISD trustees approved the appointment of Mike Morrison as interim superintendent Monday evening, following the departure of Damenion Miller.

Miller, who accepted the position of superintendent at Crockett ISD, expressed confidence in his successor. “I feel great about it,” Miller said of Morrison. “I think he’ll do a good job for the board.”

Morrison, who is retired, will lead the district until a more long-term superintendent is selected. This isn’t Morrison’s first time guiding a school board through a leadership transition, as he previously served as interim superintendent for Kilgore ISD and Gladewater ISD. Now, he will shepherd Winona ISD as it conducts its search.

“I like what Winona has done here,” Morrison said. “Mr. Miller has done a great job.”

Miller led the district to its highest academic ratings in 20 years, improved financial stability by reversing a $2.4 million deficit, and passed a $13.5 million bond to fund essential infrastructure improvements. His leadership also strengthened community partnerships, expanded vocational programs, and enhanced student learning opportunities.

Reflecting on his decision to move on, Miller said, “It brings about mixed emotions as you could see with all the great people that work here,” Miller said. “But there comes a point in your career in education, where you move on to pursue other things and pursue other challenges.”

Under Miller’s leadership, the district has thrived — securing grants, awards, and stronger accountability ratings as part of its progress.

“I accomplished a lot here at Winona ISD, including renovating every classroom in the district, passing a bond, and upgrading the cafeteria,” he said. “We also achieved the highest academic rating in 20 years. Although we didn’t have the support of a bond for the athletic facility, we were still able to provide a safe playing surface for our students, who had previously dealt with potholes and sinkholes on the field. Despite the challenges and tough financial climate for school districts, we made that happen.”

Miller’s career at Winona began as principal of Winona High School from 2016 to 2020, followed by his role as assistant superintendent from 2017 to 2020. With more than two decades in education, Miller also previously spent 11 years at Quitman ISD as a coach and director of technology, a year at Chapel Hill ISD as assistant head football coach, and five years at Tyler ISD’s Moore Magnet School as assistant principal.

“I wish Winona nothing but the best,” Miller said. “I’m keeping all of my Winona clothes because I’ll be back as a supporter.”

The process of selecting a superintendent typically begins with the school board assessing the district’s needs and the qualifications required for the role. Once the position is posted, a search committee may be formed to manage the recruitment and screening process. After interviews and evaluations, the board selects a lone finalist, or the single candidate they intend to appoint.

Under Texas law, once a lone finalist is chosen, the board must publicly announce the selection. Following the announcement, a 21-day waiting period is required, allowing the public and community members to raise any objections. If no objections are filed, the appointment is finalized, and the new superintendent assumes the role.

“There are several people that I believe have the ability to step in and do a great job,” Miller said. “I’m sure there’ll be many applicants as well, so I know Winona ISD will be left in great hands.”

As he looks ahead, Miller is excited for the opportunity to lead Crockett ISD into the future, Crockett ISD said in a press release. Miller looks forward to working alongside students, educators, parents, and stakeholders to build on Crockett ISD’s strengths and create a bright future for the district.