Former Texas state Rep. Gary VanDeaver has been selected as the next executive director of the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB), putting a longtime educator and former school superintendent at the helm of the statewide organization.
VanDeaver will begin the job Oct. 1, according to TASB. He succeeds acting Executive Director Tiffany Dunne-Oldfield, who has held the position since August. TASB provides services and resources to school board members and districts across Texas.
VanDeaver brings experience in public education and state government to the position. Before entering the Texas Legislature, he spent more than three decades in education, beginning his career as a vocational agriculture teacher and later serving as a principal and superintendent of New Boston Independent School District.
He represented Texas House District 1, which includes Bowie, Cass, Lamar, Morris and Red River counties. During the 89th legislative session, VanDeaver chaired the House Committee on Public Health and served on the House Committee on Higher Education.
“Gary has dedicated his life to serving the cause of public education both inside our districts as a teacher and administrator and for the last 12 years as a leading voice in policy discussions on public education,” TASB Board President Tony Hopkins said in announcing the selection.
Hopkins said VanDeaver’s experience working with elected school board members, managing school districts and representing rural communities were among the factors behind the board’s decision.
The TASB board conducted the search with assistance from executive search firm Korn Ferry, according to the association.
VanDeaver announced in December 2025 that he would not seek a seventh term in the Texas House. He had represented the Northeast Texas district since his election in 2014.
He recently stepped down from his legislative seat ahead of starting the TASB position, according to the association. The election for his successor in House District 1 is scheduled for November.
“My entire career reflects my belief that a strong public education system represents the best shot for all Texas children to achieve the American dream,” VanDeaver said. “I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the great people at TASB and thankful to the TASB Board for trusting my leadership as we continue to serve our members and the students they represent.”
VanDeaver earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education from East Texas State University, now East Texas A&M University, and master’s and doctoral degrees in educational administration from East Texas A&M.
As executive director, VanDeaver will oversee TASB’s services and programs and be responsible for carrying out the goals and vision established by its board of directors.
Photo courtesy of TASB
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