Press release from Comstock ISD
Following a comprehensive search and interview process, the Comstock ISD Board of Trustees selected and named Dr. Gary Applewhite as the Lone Finalist considered for Superintendent of Schools for the District.
Following the required 21 days required by law to hire, the Board approved the hiring of Dr. Applewhite on Monday, June 1st. We invite you to welcome Dr. Applewhite as he is set to begin in Comstock on June 4th.
Dr. Gary Applewhite brings eighteen years of experience in Texas public
education and a lifelong commitment to serving students, families, and communities through leadership grounded in faith, growth, and servant leadership. Throughout his career, Dr. Applewhite has served as a teacher, coach, bus driver, assistant principal, principal, and Deputy Superintendent, giving him a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing rural Texas schools.
Serving as Deputy Superintendent at Brookesmith ISD, Dr. Applewhite oversees district accountability and compliance, mentors campus leadership, supervises professional development, and supports multiple district operations. During his leadership career, he successfully led campuses and districts through school improvement efforts, strengthened accountability systems, improved school culture, expanded CTE pathways, and increased opportunities for students through dual credit and workforce certifications.
A passionate advocate for rural education, Dr. Applewhite believes strong schools are built through trust, relationships, communication, and a shared commitment to student success. His leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration and bringing people together around a common vision while ensuring every student is known, valued, and challenged to succeed. He believes meaningful progress occurs when school staff, families, community members, and the school board work together in unity to create opportunities for students and strengthen the future of the community.
Throughout his career, Dr. Applewhite has focused heavily on preparing students for life beyond high school by expanding College, Career, and Military Readiness opportunities. Under his leadership, districts expanded Career and Technical Education programs, increased industry-based certifications, strengthened dual-credit offerings, and developed pathways that allowed students to graduate with workforce-ready skills and meaningful opportunities for their future. His commitment to student success extends beyond accountability measures and focuses on helping students build confidence, character, leadership, and hope for their future.
Before entering school administration, Dr. Applewhite spent many years serving in ministry work across the country as a youth, family, and preaching minister. Those experiences deeply shaped his servant leadership philosophy and strengthened his passion for helping people, building relationships, restoring trust, and serving communities during both challenging and successful seasons of life. He believes leadership is ultimately about serving others, listening well, and helping people work together toward a greater purpose.
Dr. Applewhite earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas, his master’s degree in Adult Education from the University of Phoenix, and his bachelor’s degree in Christian Ministry from Abilene Christian University. He also holds Superintendent, Principal, and Business teacher certifications in Texas and continues to pursue professional growth in school finance and district leadership.
Dr. Applewhite and his wife, Leslie, have been married since 2016. Leslie is a professional in the mortgage industry and shares his passion for serving others and building meaningful relationships. Together, they are proud parents of five and grandparents of five.
Please join the Comstock ISD Board of Trustees in welcoming Dr. Gary Applewhite as the new Superintendent!
