June 17, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 17, 2026
Contact: Stephanie Noriega, Chief of the Center for Strategic Communications and Engagement, Region 4 Education Service Center
Phone: 832.541.3121
Email: stephanie.noriega@esc4.net
HOUSTON, Texas—Channelview Independent School District (ISD) Superintendent Dr. Tory C. Hill has been selected as the 2026 Region 4 Superintendent of the Year. He will advance as the Region 4 nominee for Texas Superintendent of the Year, to be announced by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) during txEDCON26 in October.
Since joining Channelview ISD in 2022, Dr. Hill has led significant progress in student outcomes while expanding innovative learning opportunities and strengthening long-term district planning. Under his leadership, Channelview ISD improved its Texas Education Agency accountability rating from a “C” to a “B” under a more rigorous accountability system and increased the percentage of graduates demonstrating College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) outcomes to 96 percent.
Dr. Hill has expanded opportunities for students through initiatives such as the Gateway to Education P-TECH program, which provides students with a tuition-free pathway to earn an associate’s degree and industry certifications, and the New Horizons Fine Arts Magnet, which offers specialized arts programming designed to increase student engagement and achievement.
He led a comprehensive long-range planning process that aligned district facilities, enrollment growth, and academic programming with community priorities while maintaining financial stability. Channelview ISD also earned the Region 4 Dr. Rod Paige School Safety Award, marking the first time the district has received the honor. The district continues to demonstrate strong fiscal stewardship through its “A” Superior Achievement Rating under the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST).
“Under Dr. Hill’s direction, Channelview ISD has become a model for purposeful growth, defined by strategic decision-making, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education,” said Channelview ISD Board President Alex Ybarra. “His leadership demonstrates excellence in every aspect of district management, from instructional innovation to board relations, fiscal stewardship, and public advocacy.”
Prior to joining Channelview ISD, Dr. Hill served as superintendent of Sweeny ISD and held executive leadership positions in Katy ISD and Clear Creek ISD. He currently serves in statewide leadership roles, including co-chair of the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) Visioning Refresh initiative and member of the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Risk Management Fund Board of Trustees.
“Dr. Hill’s leadership has produced measurable results for students while positioning Channelview ISD for continued success,” said Dr. Rodney Watson, Executive Director of Region 4 Education Service Center. “His commitment to academic achievement, innovative programming, school safety, and responsible stewardship reflects the qualities this award is designed to recognize. We are proud to honor his service to students, educators, and the Channelview community.”
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About the Texas Association of School Administrators and Texas Association of School Boards Superintendent of the Year Program
Established in 1984, the Superintendent of the Year program recognizes exemplary public school leaders who demonstrate excellence in educational leadership, student achievement, and community engagement. Superintendents from Texas public school districts are nominated by their school boards and selected through a regional and statewide review process.
About Region 4 Education Service Center
Region 4 Education Service Center, established by the Texas Legislature more than half a century ago, is dedicated to assisting school districts and charter schools to achieve optimal student performance, operational efficiency, and the successful implementation of state initiatives. Our District Advancement Champions are proud to be trusted guides for 46 public school districts and 42 open-enrollment charter schools that represent more than 1.25 million students, 108,136 professional educators, and 1,500 campuses.
To help educators address instructional challenges and fortify sustainable infrastructures, we deliver exceptional, expert-led professional development, high-quality educational products, and strategic guidance. Our Centers for Excellence in Teaching and Learning; Strategic District Support; and Educator Development, Transformation, and Organizational Culture are thoughtfully designed to empower school leaders and educators to achieve excellence. Our innovative and comprehensive approach to supporting educators leaves no doubt that we’ve got their back.