SAISD Names Toni Thompson Interim Superintendent as Jaime Aquino Prepares to Retire
The San Antonio ISD Board of Trustees voted Monday night to appoint Toni Thompson as the district’s interim superintendent, effective July 1, following the announced retirement of Superintendent Jaime Aquino.
“We are truly excited to have Toni serve in this capacity. She has been a tremendous asset to this district for a number of years. What better way to honor one of our own,” Board President Alicia Sebastian said.
Thompson currently serves as SAISD’s Chief of Staff and brings decades of leadership experience to the position. Her appointment provides continuity for the district as trustees prepare for a leadership transition following Aquino’s departure.
Aquino announced earlier this year that he would retire after a career spanning four decades in education. During his tenure at SAISD, the district navigated enrollment declines, budget pressures and academic initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes while expanding opportunities for students across San Antonio.
Thompson currently serves as SAISD’s Chief of Staff and previously spent 22 years as the district’s Associate Superintendent for Human Resources. She has worked in human resources and educational leadership since 1985 and has played a key role in workforce development, employee relations and district operations.
A graduate of Southwest Texas State University, Thompson earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. Throughout her career, she has worked extensively in underserved communities and helped lead district initiatives, including SAISD’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her appointment places a longtime SAISD leader at the helm as the district transitions following Aquino’s retirement announcement.
As interim superintendent, Thompson will oversee the district beginning July 1 while the Board of Trustees works through the process of selecting a permanent superintendent.
For district leaders, the appointment reflects confidence in a longtime employee who has spent much of her career serving SAISD students, staff and families.
“Toni understands this district, our employees, our students and our community,” Sebastian said. “Her commitment to service has been evident throughout her career.”
