Fort Bend school board president Dae on lone superintendent finalist: 'Dr. Smith is a familiar face in our district and community'

The Fort Bend Independent School District (FBISD) has announced Dr. Marc Smith as the sole candidate for its vacant superintendent position. If approved by the FBISD Board of Trustees, he will replace the recently retired Dr. Christie Whitbeck.

In a press release issued on December 15, school board president Judy Dae expressed her excitement about the development. "We are excited to announce that Dr. Marc Smith has been named as Fort Bend ISD’s lone finalist for superintendent of schools," she said. Dae also highlighted Smith's previous contributions to the district and community, stating, "Dr. Smith is a familiar face in our district and community having served in Fort Bend ISD for 6 years as an Executive Principal and Assistant Superintendent before accelerating to a successful career in the superintendency."

The press release further detailed Smith's commitment to student achievement, describing him as a "humble, steadfast leader focused on putting students first." It continued: "He believes a student’s circumstances today do not define their tomorrow which is why he will work tirelessly in partnership with the district’s staff, families, and community to give hope to every child in Fort Bend ISD."

Smith himself expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the district. "The opportunity to return to Fort Bend ISD feels like a homecoming," he said in the release. "I am honored to rejoin the district and community as your superintendent and look forward to reconnecting with the people and traditions that have always inspired me."

Smith received his college education in Houston. He completed his undergraduate studies at Texas Southern University (TSU), earning a bachelor's degree in human performance. He then earned a master’s degree in administration and supervision from Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) and finally obtained his doctorate from the University of Houston (UH). According to state law, districts must wait 21 days before extending a contract.