Paying It Forward

Frisco ISD Superintendent Mike Waldrip Leaves a Proud Legacy

At the Frisco Independent School District (ISD), a chapter is quietly closing as a new chapter is set to begin. After a remarkable 44-year career in public education and nine impactful years at the helm of Frisco ISD, Superintendent Dr. Mike Waldrip has announced plans to retire effective June 30, 2026. After an illustrious career, families and faculty alike are paying homage to a leader who consistently elevated the school district while always remaining connected to the families and neighborhoods that make the community so special.

Dr. Waldrip’s tenure in Frisco ISD has been defined by his forward-thinking, collaborative leadership. Since stepping into the superintendent role in 2017, he led the district with a clear vision on how to foster student success, innovation, and well-being. Under his steady guidance, academic programs grew stronger, educators received sustained support, and opportunities for all learners expanded, driven by the philosophy that every student deserves to find their path to success.

Residents across the district will remember more than test scores and new programs. They’ll remember a leader who emphasized teamwork and relationships, prioritizing students with every decision. The board of trustees has echoed this sentiment, praising Dr. Waldrip for his integrity, vision, and a steadfast focus on students. 

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the students, staff and families of Frisco ISD,” Dr. Waldrip previously said in a sentiment he shared with the community when he announced his retirement.

In March, the Frisco ISD Board of Trustees announced that Deputy Superintendent Dr. Todd Fouche was the lone finalist to relieve Dr. Waldrip, effectively passing the baton to his successor. The decision was made after a thorough and inclusive process, ensuring that the next leader would inherit a district built on a foundation of excellence, collaboration, and a shared commitment to student opportunity.

As Frisco ISD families, teachers, and students bid farewell to Dr. Waldrip and the lasting impact he leaves behind, the district stands ready to continue its mission where students are prepared not just for exams, but for life. As this new chapter begins, Dr. Waldrip’s legacy will continue to be felt in classrooms, on fields, and in the everyday conversations that shape the future of Frisco ISD.

Learn more at Frisco ISD.