Curtis was raised in Llano, TX. He moved to Damon in 1980 where he attended Needville High School graduating in 1983. He attended Sam Houston State University from 1983-1987 graduating with a degree in education and teaching certifications in Biology and PE. He received his Master's Degree in Education Administration in 1992 from Sam Houston State University. He has post-graduate work studies from Lamar University and Texas A&M University.

Curtis' work experience began in Klein ISD from 1987-1992, where he taught science and coached. From 1992-1994 he was the assistant principal at Cuero High School. From 1994-1996 he was the principal at Groesbeck High School and from 1996-2000 he was the principal at Stephenville High School. He began his first superintendency in Ingram ISD from 2000-2002. From 2002-2006 he was superintendent of schools Athens ISD. Since 2006, is the current superintendent of schools in Needville ISD.

Curtis' wife Melissa (Engeling) is also a 1983 graduate of Needville High School and a graduate of Sam Houston State University with degrees in Biology and Psychology along with teaching certifications in Biology and Library Science. She currently is the lead librarian for Needville High School. They have three children all who have graduated from Needville High School. : Cydney - a 2014 graduate of Texas A&M University. Kaitlan - a 2018 graduate of the University of Texas in Austin. Jacob - attending Sam Houston State University.