Superintendent

Dr. Mark Porterie has dedicated his professional life to the Port Arthur Independent School District (PAISD), where he has served in various capacities since 1992. In January 2014, he was appointed superintendent, making significant strides in the district's educational landscape. He is particularly proud to be the first superintendent in PAISD’s history to be named Region 5 Superintendent of the Year in 2018, an honor awarded to him from a pool of leaders representing 35 Southeast Texas school districts. Dr. Porterie was also recognized as one of the five finalists for the coveted Superintendent of the Year award for the state of Texas, reflecting his exceptional leadership and commitment to education.

His journey in education has been marked by a diverse series of roles, beginning as a teacher before ascending to the positions of assistant principal, principal, assistant to the superintendent, assistant superintendent, deputy superintendent and superintendent. With 33 years of experience, Dr. Porterie has a profound understanding of the educational system and a deep commitment to student success.

Under Dr. Porterie's leadership, PAISD has experienced transformative changes, including the successful passage of a $195 million bond, 2014, that facilitated the construction of new schools and renovations across the district. He initiated the restructuring of Booker T. Washington Elementary School into a K-2nd grade campus and DeQueen Elementary into a 3rd-5th grade campus, aimed at enhancing students' reading skills. In the 2016-2017 academic year, all PAISD schools met the state accountability standards, a testament to Dr. Porterie’s dedication to academic excellence. He further collaborated with students, parents, and community leaders during the 2017-2018 school year to devise a comprehensive five-year strategic plan for the district.

Beyond his professional commitments, Dr. Porterie is a proud family man. He enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Caffrie, and their daughter, Imani, a 2015 graduate of Memorial High School. Recently, the Porterie family has celebrated the arrival of their new grandson, Graycen, and Dr. Porterie finds great joy in getting to know him.

The Porterie family is actively involved in their local community and are devoted members of the Cathedral of Faith Baptist Church in Beaumont, Texas. Dr. Porterie's enduring dedication to education and his passion for nurturing not just students but also his family, embodies the spirit of leadership, commitment, and love for community that characterizes his career and life.