In a high-stakes showdown for the future of the Judson Independent School District, the board of trustees is meeting tonight, February 4, 2026, to vote on the proposed termination of Superintendent Milton “Rob” Fields III.
The special meeting, which began at 5:30 PM at the ERC Board Room in Live Oak, comes after weeks of intense public outcry and legal maneuvering. Fields, a Judson High School graduate and longtime district leader, was placed on paid administrative leave in early January 2026 following allegations of financial mismanagement—claims his supporters argue are politically motivated.
The Core Conflict: “Good Cause” vs. Community Support
The board’s agenda specifically lists the consideration of terminating Fields’ contract “for good cause.” However, the definition of that “cause” has become a central point of contention.
Financial Allegations: Board members led by President Monica Ryan have raised concerns over the district’s fiscal health and specific leadership decisions made by Fields.
The “Grow Our Own” Defense: Fields is a deeply popular figure among staff and parents, having risen through the ranks as a teacher, principal, and deputy superintendent. Many in the community see the board’s move as an attempt to push out a leader who understands the district’s unique culture.
The Racism Allegation: Tensions escalated this week after a court filing by a San Antonio resident accused Board President Monica Ryan of “outright racist ridicule” against Fields during the ongoing investigation. Ryan and her supporters have denied these claims.
A District Under Litigation
The fallout from the attempt to fire Fields has moved from the boardroom to the courtroom.
| Legal Action | Allegation | Impact |
| Open Meetings Lawsuit | Filed by resident Lisa Butler, alleging the board violated the Texas Open Meetings Act during the Jan 10 meeting. | Could potentially nullify previous board actions if a judge finds notice was insufficient. |
| Contract Injunction | Supporters are seeking to block the termination, arguing the board is violating Fields’ contract, which was recently extended through June 2028. | Adds a layer of legal risk to tonight’s vote; a termination could trigger a massive buyout or a protracted lawsuit. |
What’s at Stake Tonight?
If the board votes to terminate Fields, they are expected to immediately appoint an interim superintendent to steady the 23,000-student district.
The Vote Count: Historically, the board has been split. The “new guard” led by Ryan often finds itself at odds with more tenured trustees like Jose Macias Jr. and Suzanne Kenoyer, who have expressed skepticism toward the rush to fire Fields.
Community Backlash: An online petition calling for the ouster of Board President Monica Ryan has garnered over 1,100 signatures, signaling that a vote to fire Fields may only be the beginning of the political turmoil.
“Rob Fields is Judson. To fire him without clear, transparent evidence of wrongdoing is not just a mistake; it’s a betrayal of the students he grew up with.” — Local Parent at Jan 2026 Board Meeting
