Dr. Debra Kerney Named Associate Superintendent
The Canutillo Independent School District Board of Trustees has announced Dr. Debra Kerney as the next Associate Superintendent of Canutillo ISD. Dr. Kerney will assume the position beginning July 1.
“I am excited to welcome Dr. Kerney as our new associate superintendent,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Pedro Galaviz. “Her proven record as an exceptional leader together with her pride and passion for this district, community, and student success make her a quintessential part of our leadership team and in this new role, she will further boost our programs and opportunities for students.”
Currently serving Canutillo ISD Associate Superintendent Marina Rocha, who will be retiring at the end of this school year, proudly passes the baton to Dr. Kerney who brings a wealth of experience in education and leadership capabilities to the high-ranking position achieved from a 27-year career in public education.
Dr. Kerney discovered her love of teaching while serving as a Sunday school teacher and began her career in education at Socorro Independent School District. She joined Canutillo ISD in 2007 where she has held several leadership roles including opening two schools, first as the instructional coordinator at Gonzalo and Sofia Garcia Elementary School in 2007 and as the founding principal of Congressman Silvestre and Carolina Reyes Elementary School in 2015. She currently serves as the executive director of Curriculum and Instruction.
“I have served the district with all my heart for the past 15 years and am very excited to have this opportunity to serve in a new way,” Dr. Kerney said.
Dr. Kerney earned her bachelor’s degree in social psychology, a master’s in educational leadership, and a doctorate in teaching, learning, and culture from The University of Texas at El Paso.
“What makes me proud to work in this district is that I see that Dr. Galaviz and the district’s leaders have the same heart as I do to serve kids and this community,” Dr. Kerney said. “They will do whatever it takes to help students be successful. It is this passion that we utilize when talking about programs and ideas and how we can always do better to make the teaching and learning experience the best it can be for every student. Being part of a team that is already so strong is an honor for me.”