Pilot Point, Texas – The Pilot Point Independent School District (ISD) disclosed two major leadership changes on November 9. Police Chief Eric Dortch submitted his resignation after being placed on paid administrative leave in October, while Superintendent Dr. Shannon Fuller was reinstated following a third‑party investigation.
Chief Dortch steps down
Chief Dortch was placed on paid administrative leave on October 13 due to “personnel matters,” according to district officials. The district did not release specifics about the allegations or the nature of the investigation. On November 9, Dortch formally tendered his resignation, ending his tenure as the district’s top law‑enforcement officer.
During Dortch’s leave, Deputy Chief Dee Carter assumed the role of acting police chief. Carter will continue in that capacity while the district conducts a search for a permanent replacement.
Superintendent Fuller returns
Dr. Shannon Fuller, who had been placed on paid administrative leave on October 14 after Chief Dortch filed a complaint, was reinstated on the same day as Dortch’s resignation. The district said a verbal report from the third‑party investigator was provided to district leaders on Monday, and that Fuller had complied with district policy in placing Chief Dortch on administrative leave.
The investigation, as noted by the district, did not involve any concerns about the safety of children. However, the district has not made the findings public, leaving many parents and community members seeking clarification.
Community reaction
Local residents expressed frustration over the lack of transparency. Mary Willard, a Pilot Point parent, posted on the district’s Facebook page, “It did nothing but raise questions and concerns. In the community we didn’t even know what’s going on, so releasing no context is very concerning and leaves us all with unanswered questions.”
Willard’s comments reflect a broader desire among families for clearer communication from the district regarding personnel actions that affect school safety and governance.
Next steps for the district
The school board will begin the search for a new police chief, a position critical to maintaining safety and order across Pilot Point schools. District officials indicated they will continue to follow established policies and will keep the public informed as the hiring process moves forward.
Meanwhile, Superintendent Fuller resumes her duties overseeing academic programs, staff, and district operations. The board is expected to review the investigation’s findings in a future meeting, though no timeline has been set for releasing a full report.
What parents should know
Parents are encouraged to stay engaged with district communications, attend upcoming board meetings, and submit questions through official channels. Transparency and accountability remain central to the district’s mission of providing a safe, high‑quality education environment for all students.
Original reporting: Dallas – Ft. Worth Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
