Leadership update

Robert Abel has been named acting chief of Human Capital Management. As deputy chief of HCM, he has overseen several areas of Dallas ISD’s human resources, such as central and campus staffing, employee relations, benefits, HRIS, background checks, certification, employee records, and substitutes. Abel has also served as one of the leads in the district’s ESSER Implementation and Improvement Committee, overseeing the allocation of millions in federal funds. Abel brings more than 20 years of experience in education to his role as acting chief.

During his four-year tenure with the district, Abel has served on a variety of local and regional committees and task forces. Prior to coming to Dallas ISD, Abel was division director of High Schools/Support Services at Irving ISD, where he supervised all aspects of the district’s five high schools, newcomer center, alternative education programs, career development center, and other areas. He earned a bachelor’s degree in cell and molecular biology from Oklahoma State University and a Master of Education from The University of Texas at Arlington.

Abel steps in as acting chief upon the recent retirement of Cynthia Wilson, who has served as chief of Human Capital Management for Dallas ISD for several years.