Elysian Fields ISD Superintendent Monica Simmons, who has served in EFISD as an administrator or teacher since 2002, has resigned to pursue other career opportunities.

“I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together,” said Simmons, who will remain as Superintendent until the end of July. “The progress we’ve made is a direct reflection of the unwavering dedication of our students, staff, families, and community. It has been an honor to work in partnership with each of you in support of a shared vision for excellence.”

Simmons informed the EFISD Board of Trustees of her decision to resign during a Special Called Meeting last week. Board President, Julie Simmons, said that the board will begin a search for a new superintendent immediately.

“We are grateful for Monica Simmons and all that she has given to our district over the last 23 years,” Julie Simmons said. “She has been an integral part of EFISD and has led with tremendous passion and desire to make our district the best it can be for our students and staff. We truly wish her nothing but the best as she pursues other endeavors for herself and her wonderful family.”

Monica Simmons was named Superintendent of EFISD in April 2022, following the retirement of longtime EFISD Superintendent, Maynard Chapman. In her three years as leader of the district, she pointed to several important milestones that are highlights for her, including the development of the district’s Strategic Plan, which established a clear and purposeful vision for the future of EFISD; and the successful passage of the 2024 Bond, securing resources to improve facilities, upgrade transportation, and invest in the future of our students.

Monica Simmons has been a part of EFISD since 2002, when she joined the district as a student teacher and later a first grade teacher. Since then, outside one year as a reading interventionist in Marshall ISD, she has served EFISD as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, curriculum director, federal programs director and testing coordinator.

In June of 2021, she was named EFISD’s Assistant Superintendent while also continuing to serve as director of curriculum. She was elevated to the Superintendent position in the spring of 2022 following Chapman’s retirement.

Under her leadership, EFISD passed a school bond in May 2024 that included the construction of a new elementary school. Construction of that school is underway, with a scheduled opening of Fall 2026.

Monica Simmons has earned several awards during her career, including the 2013-14 Elysian Fields Elementary Teacher of the Year, the 2019 Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association Region 7 Assistant Principal of the Year and the 2020 Marshall News Messenger and Wiley College Black History Month Now winner.

She holds an associate’s degree at Panola College, a bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at Tyler, a master’s degree at the University of Texas at Tyler, a principal certification from Stephen F. Austin State University, and a superintendent certification from the University of Texas at Tyler.

“Elysian Fields ISD will always hold a special place in my heart,” Monica Simmons said. “I will forever cherish the relationships built, the challenges we faced together, and the many moments of joy and celebration we shared. Though I will no longer be in EFISD, I will continue to cheer on the Jackets always proud, always grateful. Go Jackets!”