The Hidalgo Independent School District school board held a meeting on Friday and approved a new interim superintendent and begin the process to start the search for a new permanent superintendent.

The board Greg Solano as the new interim superintendent. He's worked for the district for more than 20 years. Most recently, Solano was the district's bilingual education director.

"I know one of the things I want to make sure of is that I am here for the students and the community. I come from this community, and I am a product of Hidalgo," Solano said.

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Solano is stepping up after the now former interim superintendent submitted his resignation letter on Monday.

Dr. Fernando Castillo only served four months before resigning; Friday was his last on the job.

The board also approved Castillo's separation agreement. He'll be paid out $18,000, something Hidalgo ISD School Board Vice President Ray Martinez is not a fan of.

"Me, personally, I don't like that because I don't like to give away money. It's money we could use for our kids," Martinez said.

Castillo cited plans to focus on the next steps of his career in his resignation letter.