Superintendent
Travis W. Edwards, Superintendent of Hitchcock Independent School District, brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and personal commitment to his role as the district's leader. With over 30 years of service in education, including 15 years as a superintendent, Mr. Edwards has devoted his career to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Born the oldest of four children in a humble 40-foot single-wide travel trailer, Mr. Edwards’ early life was marked by challenges that shaped his character and work ethic. As the son of two high school dropouts, much of the responsibility of raising his younger siblings fell on his shoulders. These formative experiences taught him the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of looking out for others. Despite growing up in a family facing incarceration, substance abuse, and teen pregnancy, Mr. Edwards became the first and only member of his family to attend college, demonstrating his determination to break barriers and create a better future.
After graduating high school, Mr. Edwards served for eight years in the United States Naval Submarine Service, including during Operation Desert Storm. During this time, he completed his bachelor's degree in just 18 months while simultaneously serving as an Electronics Instructor at the Naval Submarine School in Groton, Connecticut. He returned to his hometown of Port Arthur in 1994 and began his educational career by teaching Electronics and Physical Science at Lincoln High School—filling the role of one of his former teachers.
Mr. Edwards earned a master’s degree in 1997, as well as Mid-Management and Superintendent certifications by 1999, all through Lamar University. Since transitioning into educational leadership in 1997, he has served in a variety of roles, including Assistant Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent, Field Service Agent, and Superintendent across multiple districts in Texas. Throughout his career, Mr. Edwards has worked almost exclusively in economically disadvantaged districts, where his heart lies. He is deeply committed to serving communities that face significant challenges, believing in the potential of every child to achieve greatness regardless of their circumstances. His leadership and dedication to equity in education have earned him accolades such as the TASSP Region 5 High School Principal of the Year, recognition by Sisters Helping Everyone Excel for Community Service in Galveston County, and the Julio Luna Jr. Grand Marshal Award for Service to Galveston County. He was also nominated for the prestigious TASB Superintendent of the Year Award.
As superintendent of Hitchcock ISD, Mr. Edwards is passionate about eliminating barriers for students, supporting staff to reach their fullest potential, and inspiring a culture of excellence throughout the district. He established the Superintendent’s Excellence Scholarship Award, which provides $1,000 each to two graduating seniors every year. Under his leadership, Hitchcock ISD has received the United Way Campaign Award for highest contributions in education annually, a testament to the district’s commitment to community service.
In addition, Mr. Edwards introduced the district motto, What Starts Here Can Change the World, as a reflection of his belief in the transformative power of education. This guiding principle inspires students, staff, and the Hitchcock ISD community to dream big, work hard, and make a meaningful impact on the world.
Outside of his professional life, Mr. Edwards is a proud father to three daughters—Hannah, Claire, and Caraline—who live in Central Texas, and a doting “Big Poppa” to his granddaughter Zella. His dedication to education stems from his belief in its power to transform lives, as it has transformed his. He works every day to ensure that Hitchcock ISD remains a place where students, staff, and the community can thrive together.