Dr. Susannah O’Bara has been named superintendent of Denton Independent School District, becoming the first woman to lead the district in its 142-year history. The Board of Trustees unanimously approved her appointment during their June 18 meeting, following the retirement announcement of former Superintendent Dr. Jamie Wilson.
O’Bara, who previously served as Denton ISD’s deputy superintendent, brings decades of experience and a lifelong connection to the district. A Denton native, O’Bara attended school in the district and earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees locally before embarking on her educational career.
“I’ve been here my whole life. I was a student, I grew up in Denton ISD,” O’Bara said. “All of those stages, from student to teacher to campus administrator, have helped me understand exactly why we do what we do as a system.”
O’Bara began her career as a classroom teacher, working at Wilson Elementary, Ginnings Elementary, McNair Elementary, and later joining the inaugural staff of McMath Middle School. While teaching at McNair Elementary, her principal encouraged her to pursue an administration certificate.
“I said no at first,” O’Bara recalled. “But my principal said, ‘I’ll visit your classroom every day until you say yes.’ As a teacher, I didn’t want that, so I eventually agreed.”
O’Bara went on to earn her master’s degree and administration certification, taking her first administrative position as assistant principal at Ginnings Elementary. She later served as principal of Hawk Elementary for 10 years.
Although she never planned to become a superintendent, O’Bara said her career advanced naturally as she sought ways to positively influence students.
“Whether I was a classroom teacher, campus principal, or assistant superintendent, your work’s never done,” O’Bara said. “I’ve always thought about serving my students and my community. This role just allows me to have a greater influence.”
As superintendent, O’Bara is focused on maintaining the district’s tradition of excellence while addressing challenges such as budget constraints. She emphasized her commitment to supporting teachers and campus leaders to ensure students receive a high-quality education.
“One of my biggest priorities is ensuring our campuses have everything they need to succeed,” O’Bara said.
While her appointment marks a historic moment for Denton ISD, O’Bara downplays the significance of being the first woman in the role.
“I’ve never thought of myself as doing what I do because I’m female,” she said. “Being female gives me a unique perspective — not better, not worse, just different.”
Looking ahead, O’Bara plans to uphold the district’s mission of fostering a lifelong love of learning and building a strong sense of community.
“I’ve always wanted to influence and inspire kids,” O’Bara said. “Now, I have the opportunity to do that on a larger scale.”
