July/August 2023 Texas School Business

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Ideas. Insights. Inspiration. Shaping Public Education Together

Sept. 29—Oct. 1

Dallas

Bailey

FEATURED SPEAKERS

MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY is an Academy Award-winning actor and dedicated philanthropist whose just keep livin’ Foundation empowers high school students to lead active lives and make healthy choices for a better future.

KEN WILLIAMS is a nationally recognized trainer, speaker, coach, and consultant in leadership, instructional equity, and school culture.

MEAGAN JOHNSON speaks to audiences all over the world on how they can motivate and manage different generations in the workforce.

Kay

Hutchison Convention Center

From the editor

In this issue of Texas School Business, we wrap up our two-part series on generative AI, specifically chatbots, and their place on school campuses. We spoke to a few administrators to see how their districts are responding to AI use by students as well as educators. You can read about their unique approaches starting on page 12.

Another hot tech topic for administrators these days is cybersecurity, and we’ve got a Digital Frontier column on page 11 that spells out the ins and outs of cybersecurity insurance. It’s a must-read on an important topic, courtesy of Kari Murphy in Deer Park ISD.

We’ve also got your favorite regular columns, including a timely Law Dawg from Jim Walsh and a somber, but important, Back Page from Riney Jordan.

I’d like to take this time to send out a request — we are looking for Texas public school students and arts educators to write columns for upcoming issues. If you know of anyone in your district who might be interested, please reach out to me at drivers@texasschoolbusiness.com.

For now, I hope you all enjoy the issue, and the rest of your summer!

Texas School Business

JULY/AUGUST 2023

Volume LXX, Issue 4

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Austin, Texas 78701

Phone: 512-477-6361

www.texasschoolbusiness.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Dacia Rivers

DESIGN

Dacia Rivers Editorial Director

Phaedra Strecher

COLUMNISTS

Riney Jordan

Kari Murphy

Jim Walsh

ADVERTISING SALES

Jennifer Garrido

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kevin Brown

DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING

Amy Francisco

Texas School Business (ISSN 0563-2978) is published online bimonthly with a special edition, Bragging Rights in December, by the Texas Association of School Administrators.

© Copyright 2023 Texas Association of School Administrators

MAKING AN EVERYDAY IMPACT

HCDE makes a BIG impact on Harris County communities through specialized schools; Head Start early childhood education; afterschool programs; school-based therapy services; and adult education.

See the Impact at HCDE-TEXAS.ORG/IMPACT

by Jim Walsh

Some parents who object to some of the books in the school library have chosen to read passages from these books during the public comment portion of the school board meeting. For example, Alison Hair read from “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close” at the board meeting in Forsyth County, Georgia. She didn’t get very far. As she read from this book, it went like this:

“I know that you give someone a blow job by putting your penis ….”

That’s when the gavel came down. This and other incidents led to litigation with the colorful name of Mama Bears of Forsyth County v. McCall. The board’s policy about public comment was designed to keep things civil and polite. The policy included this:

Speakers are asked to keep their remarks civil. The use of obscene, profane, physically threatening or abusive remarks will not be allowed. Loud and boisterous conduct or comments by speakers or members of the audience are not allowed.

Let’s review how the court looked at each component of that.

KEEP IT CIVIL, PLEASE. The court was OK with this as an aspirational goal. The policy did not demand civility, it just asked for it. So far so good. However, in reviewing the evidence, the court found that the standard was not applied properly. It looked to the court like the board cited the “civility standard” only when speakers chose to criticize the board. That’s not OK. Accepting praise and barring criticism under the guise of “civility” is viewpoint discrimination.

OBSCENITY. The court noted that obscenity is not protected under the First

Amendment, so it was permissible for the board to prohibit obscene speech during public comment. However, the court cautioned that this can only be applied to material that meets the Supreme Court’s strict definition of what is “obscene.” That definition would surprise a lot of school board presidents.

PROFANITY. This is the most interesting part of the court’s decision. The court notes that restrictions on profanity are “contentbased.” That means they will be OK as long as they are “reasonable and viewpointneutral.” The court then noted the lack of definition of the term, and the inherent subjectivity of it. Then concluded: Had the Board qualified the language to restrict profane remarks or profanity that was actually disruptive of the Board’s business, that might have been a different story. But it did not, and as written, it cannot stand.

The board argued that reading sexually explicit excerpts from books amounted to “profanity,” but the court didn’t buy it. The court cited several cases suggesting that the board could prohibit sexually explicit material at a board meeting, but then observed that “nowhere in the public participation policy is that term [sexually explicit] used. Rather, the term ‘profane’ is used without further definition.”

That sounds like an invitation to school board attorneys to modify public participation policies in a way that specifically bars speech that is sexually explicit or graphic. After all, there are often young children at the meeting.

ABUSIVE REMARKS. The court held that the district could not categorically bar remarks that are disrespectful or even

abusive, while acknowledging that boards can prohibit the use of “hateful racial epithets.”

LOUD OR BOISTEROUS. This portion of the policy was similar to the part about civility. It’s OK to prohibit loud or boisterous behavior that disrupts the board meeting, but again, this has to be applied evenly. In the one instance under consideration the court noted that it seemed that the board chair acted reasonably.

Mama Bears of Forsyth County v. McCall was decided by the federal court for the Northern District of Georgia on November 16, 2022. It’s at 2022 WL 18110246 and represents one more sign that “school board meeting” and “boring” are no longer synonymous.

@jwalshtxlawdawg.

Is anyone reading from a library book at your board meeting?

JIM WALSH is an attorney with Walsh Gallegos Treviño Russo & Kyle PC. He can be reached at jwalsh@wabsa.com. You can also follow him on Twitter:

The court notes that restrictions on profanity are ‘content-based.’ That means they will be OK as long as they are ‘reasonable and viewpoint-neutral.’

Who’s News

Abilene ISD

Michael Bacon has been hired as Cooper High School’s head boys’ basketball coach. He has been with Cooper High since 2018, working first as assistant girls’ basketball coach, and then in the same capacity with the boys’ team. He is a graduate of Abilene Christian College, where he also earned his master’s degree in human communication.

Alice ISD

Anysia Trevino has been promoted from deputy superintendent to superintendent. An educator for 33 years, she earned bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in education from the University of Texas PanAmerican.

Argyle ISD

Superintendent

Telena Wright retired at the end of June. She led the district for 15 years.

Azle

ISD

Now serving as Azle ISD’s director of special services is Krista MacFarlane, a 27-year educator who has spent her career working in special education. She was most recently the district’s special services coordinator.

Bastrop ISD

Bastrop ISD has announced the appointment of Riza Cooper as principal of Cedar Creek Middle School. She brings more than two decades of experience to her new position, most recently serving as middle school principal and human resource manager for Elgin ISD. She previously worked in Hutto, Austin, Lexington and Dime Box ISDs. She is a graduate of Sam Houston State University, where she also earned a master’s degree in education administration.

Boerne ISD

The Boerne ISD board of trustees has hired Sean Babcock to serve as the district’s chief technology officer. He comes to Boerne from Corpus Christi ISD, where he spent 23 years. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees

in computer science from Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi.

Cibolo Creek Elementary School will welcome its new principal, Sami Gillette, when the new academic year begins. She has been assistant principal of Fabra Elementary School for the past four years and, prior to that, worked in San Antonio’s Northside ISD and in Beaumont ISD. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Lamar University.

Talia Hernandez is the new principal of Curington Elementary School. The 18year educator has been principal of Evers Elementary in Northside ISD in San Antonio for eight years. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she earned her master’s degree in counseling. Hernandez holds a second master’s degree, in educational leadership, from Lamar University.

Matt Myers, who led Curington Elementary School since 2019, will be principal of the new, as yet unnamed, Elementary School #8. He previously worked in Corpus Christi ISD and received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi.

Boyd ISD

The former assistant high school principal of Northwest ISD in Justin is now principal of Boyd High School.

Jennifer Railsback, a 24-year educator, has also held teaching and administrative positions in Rice and Avalon ISDs and was Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD’s career and technical education coordinator. She is a graduate of Sam Houston State University with a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Concordia University.

Bullard ISD

The new principal of Bullard High School is Chad Bentley, who comes to the district from Comal ISD, where he was assistant principal and interim academic dean at Canyon Lake High School. He previously was Malakoff ISD’s fine arts coordinator and band director. He is a graduate of Northwestern State University with a master’s degree in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Clarksville ISD

New superintendent

Marian Ellis comes to Clarksville with 26 years of experience as an educator gained in assignments in Sulphur Springs and North Hopkins ISDs as well as Paris

Junior College. She earned her bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from Texas A&M University at Commerce.

College Station ISD

The appointment of Katherine Allen to serve as principal of College Hills Elementary School has been approved by the College Station ISD Board of Trustees. She comes to College Station from Bastrop ISD, where she was an assistant principal. She previously worked in Katy, Hull-Daisetta, Giddings, Silsbee, Warren and Lumberton ISDs.

Joshua Rhine, who was assistant principal of College Station High School, now leads College Station Middle School as principal. He has been with the district since 2009.

Crandall ISD

Anjanette Murry, newly appointed superintendent, joined the district in 2010 as its middle school principal, going on to serve as assistant superintendent. She most recently served as superintendent on an interim basis.

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD

The district’s new assistant superintendent of facilities and construction is

Jesse Clayburn, who has worked in commercial and school construction for 12 years, the past eight at Cypress-Fairbanks. He joined the district as a project manager and was most recently director of project management. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University.

Christina Cole, former assistant superintendent of elementary school leadership, has been promoted to chief school leadership officer. Initially a bilingual teacher in Spring Branch ISD, she arrived in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD in 1997. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and her master’s degree in education from Prairie View A&M University.

Former Cook Middle School principal Martin Drayton will serve as principal of Cypress Creek High School beginning this August. An educator for 23 years, he previously taught and was an administrator in Fort Bend, Houston, Van Vleck and Royal ISDs. He is a graduate of Grambling State University with a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Houston at Victoria.

Cybersecurity insurance: Is it needed?

by Kari Murphy

As technology continues to play an increasingly critical role in the education sector, school districts are at greater risk of cyberattacks. The consequences of these attacks can be devastating, ranging from data breaches and network outages to financial loss and reputable damage. A recent cyberattack cost one Texas school district more than $6 million. That’s why it’s essential for Texas school administrators to consider cybersecurity and/or breach insurance for their districts.

What is cybersecurity and breach insurance?

Cybersecurity and breach insurance are types of insurance policies that protect an organization from damages and losses that result from cyberattacks. These policies cover a wide range of expenses associated with cyber incidents, such as data recovery, business interruption, legal costs, and public relations expenses. Cyber insurance generally covers damage to equipment and some loss of service. Breach insurance, which may be an addendum to cyber insurance, generally covers any data breach that a school district is required to disclose, acquire legal representation, engage in forensic discovery, and, potentially, incur additional liability. Breach insurance is considered highly valuable.

Why is cybersecurity/breach insurance important for Texas school districts?

School districts store vast amounts of sensitive information, including student records, financial data, and employee information. This makes them a prime target for cybercriminals looking to steal valuable information or disrupt critical operations. A successful cyberattack can lead to significant financial losses, damage to the school’s reputation, and legal liability. With cybersecurity insurance, Texas school districts can transfer the financial risk of

a cyber incident to an insurance provider. This can help schools avoid significant financial losses associated with data breaches, system failures and other cyber incidents.

How do you choose the right cybersecurity insurance policy for your school district?

Choosing the right cybersecurity insurance policy can be challenging, as each policy comes with different terms and conditions. No two insurance companies will have identical requirements, but there will be some common elements:

• Technology and professional services

• Media communication liability

• Privacy and cybersecurity

• Data breach response and crisis management coverage

• Regulatory defense, awards and fines

Here are key considerations for Texas school administrators when selecting cybersecurity insurance for their school district:

1. Coverage: School administrators should ensure that the policy covers all the risks associated with their school’s operations, including data breaches, network outages and cyber extortion.

2. Limits: It is essential to consider the limits of the policy, which refer to the maximum amount an insurance provider will pay for a claim. School administrators should ensure that the limits are sufficient to cover the school’s potential losses.

3. Exclusions: School administrators should carefully review the policy’s exclusions to understand what is not covered by the policy.

4. Premiums: The cost of cybersecurity insurance varies depending on the level of coverage and the school district’s risk profile. School administrators

should obtain multiple quotes from different providers to compare costs and ensure that the policy’s premiums are reasonable.

The Consortium for School Networking (CoSN) has provided a list of questions the school administrator should ask in their Cyber Insurance Guidelines document:

1. What circumstances do not qualify for a payout?

2. What is the definition of real liability?

3. What is the deductible per claim? (Sometimes the deductibles plus premiums are more than the payout.)

4. What is the total aggregate payout? (Often it will be less than the aggregate of other line items.)

5. Do any specific logging requirements exist, e.g. active directory, financial system, successful and unsuccessful attempts?

> See Digital Frontier, page 32

A successful cyberattack can lead to significant financial losses, damage to the school’s reputation, and legal liability.

AI in the classroom

How Texas districts are responding

by Dacia Rivers

Artificial intelligence continues to dominate headlines, with many focusing on the potential the technology might hold for schools and students, both negative and positive. In the May/June issue of Texas School Business, we took a look at what generative AI is, specifically chatbots, such as ChatGPT, how it works and what it might mean for school districts. (Read the article.)

For this issue, we reached out to Texas school districts to see what some

administrators are doing in response to generative AI use on campuses. The answers were as complex as the technology itself.

The knee-jerk

Some of the largest school districts in the country have been quick to ban access to chatbots on campus, blocking students from visiting openai.com and other generative AI websites (at least while they’re using campus wifi). New York City Public Schools blocked chatbots, as did the Los Angeles Unified School District, along with large public school systems in Seattle and Fairfax County, Virginia.

Many Texas school districts followed this initial reaction, including Clear Creek ISD. Dustin Hardin, chief technology officer in Clear Creek, says his team decided to block student access to chatbots on campus, though he acknowledges that doing so does not prevent students from using their cell phones or home internet to make use of AI.

He says the move was designed to give English teachers some comfort, so they could give students in-class assignments to complete on their district-provided devices without worrying about generative AI doing the work for them.

The wait and see

In Pflugerville ISD, the district has not restricted access to chatbots on any of its campuses. Victor Valdez, chief operating officer in the district, says he hasn’t received requests from campuses to block the sites … yet. He expects it’s coming, probably as the next school year kicks off in the fall.

“I really like the wait-and-see approach,” Valdez says. “And it’s still very, very early.” More than a decade ago, many school districts blocked YouTube on student devices, but these days, most have unblocked the site and many teachers use it in their lessons. Pflugerville was one of the early districts to unrestrict YouTube, and Valdez says that came about due to the changes the site made in security and access, something he sees on the horizon for generative AI as well.

Valdez has not yet received a request to block chatbot access in the district, but says that if he does, he would encourage a discussion between teachers, campus leaders and the district curriculum department to determine the best next steps, which is the process the district

The reality is that chatbots are yet another new piece of technology in a long line of apps, gadgets, devices and so on, to which administrators have been responding for decades.

followed when unblocking YouTube. As fast as chatbots are developing, companies are working on tools that can detect AI generated content, such as GPTZero and ZeroGPT. These tools are still in development, and they can’t detect AI generated text with 100% accuracy, but technology moves fast, and as time goes on, they could prove to be a valuable asset for teachers.

In Clear Creek, while chatbots remain blocked for students, the sites are accessible for teachers, with the hopes that they will become more comfortable with AI as a tool. “It’s the same with almost any application we roll out,” Hardin says. “Start with teachers, let them see it, feel it, become comfortable with it, find out how they can use it in the curriculum, and then we start opening it back up, once that comfort level is there.”

The gluten of IT

While the headlines might make it seem like generative AI is making huge waves for school districts, administrators have plenty of other, more pressing tasks to consider. The reality is that chatbots are yet another new piece of technology in a long line of apps, gadgets, devices and so on, to which administrators have been responding for decades.

Valdez compares the uproar over AI to the pro- and anti-gluten headlines that dominated the news a few years ago. Everyone has an opinion, but really, the jury’s still out on what the long-term is going to look like, and true experts on AI in education are still few and far between.

“AI is so new and fresh, people want to jump all over the fad, but I don’t think it’s going to fade away anytime soon,” Valdez says. “I think it’s only going to get more and more enhanced.”

As with any new technology, some people are going to embrace it more than others, and the same goes for teachers and AI. Chatbots are potentially disruptive, but so was Google once, and online algebra calculators. In this instance, English/ language arts teachers might be the most affected, and the most likely to develop strong feelings for or against the technology.

A power tool

AI isn’t really new to school districts. Many use assessments such as NWEA’s MAP program, which administers computeradaptive achievement tests that respond instantly to student input. DreamBox similarly creates personalized lessons to individualize learning and help students work at their own levels.

“AI is definitely not going to go away, it’s just going to get more powerful,” Hardin says.

“The issue is that it’s going to advance faster than what I think school districts can create policies for.”

Creating policies and procedures around AI will present a challenge for school districts, as the technology will only continue to grow and change as time goes on. But administrators know that ignoring a challenge doesn’t make it go away.

For many, the hope is that eventually, educators and administrators will find a way to harness the power of AI and be able to use it effectively and beneficially in K-12 classrooms.

While ChatGPT might be the buzzword of the day, the potential for generative AI to disrupt the classroom is real. Thus far, schools have done a tremendous job of teaching young people to harness the power of technology and use it to boost their educations, and it doesn’t seem too far off-

base to say they’ll do the same with AI. Consider learning to use chatbots wisely as a component of good digital citizenship. After all, AI isn’t doing the thinking for anyone. It’s searching, compiling, organizing, and regurgitating information. But that information is only as good as its source material, and there are plenty of falsehoods published online. Perhaps the challenge for educators lies in teaching students how to separate the wheat from the chaff.

“The reality is that all these tools, when taught and used correctly, engage critical thinking,” Valdez says. “What students need to understand is that AI isn’t the end all be all, because there is a lot of unchecked data on the internet.”

From handing out goggles in the chemistry classroom to leading stretches before PE, Texas’ public school educators are no strangers to teaching young people safety first. They have adapted to teach safe internet usage, and it’s easy to believe they’ll be first in line to show students when AI can be helpful and trustworthy, and when it should be questioned.

“As we always try to do, we want to let the teachers drive it,” Hardin says. “I think it’s a great tool to have, and I hope we can all figure it out together.”

DACIA RIVERS is editorial director of Texas School Business.

From handing out goggles in the chemistry classroom to leading stretches before PE, Texas’ public school educators are no strangers to teaching young people safety first.

The Principals’ Institute (PI) is a year-long professional development series that provides a unique opportunity for principals to understand why transformation of public education is necessary. PI is designed to help principals develop the knowledge and skills required to be transformational leaders and to help build the capacity it takes to sustain transformation over time. The PI experience includes exposure to influential superintendents and speakers, such as Eric Sheninger, Rob Evans, George Couros, Dwight Carter, John Tanner, Jimmy Casas, and Joe Sanfelippo.

Logistics:

• Registration Fee: $6,000.00 per participant (excluding travel expenses)

• Six, 2-day sessions alternating between Austin, Dallas, and Houston

The Assistant Principal Leadership Academy (APL) provides learning opportunities to develop, challenge, and inspire assistant principals to be transformative leaders. APL participants will engage in processes which support the development of skills specific to transformational leadership and building a learning organization while preparing them for the role of principal.

Logistics:

• Registration Fee: in-person sessions - $1,000 per participant (excluding travel expenses); virtual sessions - $1,000 per participant

• Six, 4-hour sessions throughout the year

The Executive Leadership Institute (ELI) is designed to build the capacity of district executive leaders for system-wide improvements in teaching and learning. Sessions will include opportunities for leaders to cultivate strategic approaches and actions in order to support district transformational efforts. The ELI experience includes exposure to influential superintendents and speakers, such as Eric Sheninger, Rob Evans, George Couros, John Tanner, Jimmy Casas, and Joe Sanfelippo. In addition to the scheduled sessions, each participant will receive the support of an Executive Coach throughout the year.

Logistics:

• Registration Fee: $4,500.00 per participant (excluding travel expenses)

• Four, 2-day sessions alternating between Austin, Dallas, and Houston

The Teacher Leadership Institute (TLI) is a boundarybreaking institute for classroom teachers. Throughout the 6 sessions, committed teachers are empowered to revitalize learning cultures while leaning N2 an inspired future. Centered on teacher voice and grounded in a foundation of collaboration, the Teacher Leadership Institute challenges teachers to move beyond accountability standards and toward innovative learning that ignites student engagement.

Logistics:

•Customized for individual districts or regional consortiums of districts

•Six full day sessions

Find out more about our partner initiatives with TASA at www.N2learning.org

TACS’ ANNUAL PRESIDENTS LUNCHEON HONORS LONGTIME MEMBERS AND RETIRING DIRECTOR

Members of the Texas Association of Community Schools gathered in Austin for a luncheon recognizing several longtime members along with Barry Haenisch, who retired after nearly a decade as TACS executive director.

Attendees

Photo Feature

y Members of Haenisch's family attended the luncheon, including his grandson, Charlie; his daughter, Kayce; and his wife, Linda (right side of table, r to l). Also in attendance but not pictured was Haenisch’s son, Kyle.

y Rep. Gary VanDeaver presents Haenisch with a flag that flew over the Texas Capitol along with a resolution in recognition of Haenisch’s years of advocacy on behalf of small and mid-sized school districts.

y Retiring Executive Director Barry Haenisch (standing) spends time with TACS President Chris Wade (seated right), and Past President Kevin Noack.

of the TACS Presidents Program and Luncheon listen to Haenisch speak.

y Rep. VanDeaver addresses guests at the Presidents Luncheon.

Texas Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Kimberly Lawson steps up to support schools at the statewide level

by Dacia Rivers

This summer, Dr. Kimberly Lawson became president of the Texas Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (Texas ASCD). With more than 30 years’ experience working in public education, Lawson currently serves as chief academic officer in Fort Bend ISD. She began her career as a classroom teacher, moving into administration and central office positions and working in several Texas school districts, including Somerville, Tomball, Conroe, Southlake Carroll and Katy ISDs.

Lawson always knew she wanted to be a teacher, and eventually a principal. As a student herself, she had a positive experience and always felt like her future would be in education.

“I think I saw how great it would be to spend your day enjoying what you do,” she says.

Knowing she wanted to be a principal, Lawson enrolled in a specialized program at Texas A&M University that allowed her to simultaneously earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. After about 11 years working on various campuses, Lawson moved into central office positions and has spent her career ever since supporting teachers and administrators at the district level.

“I love support,” she says. “I love looking at systems and trying to see how we can support teachers better. And of course by doing that,

kids are benefiting. In all my experiences, whether I was teaching or a campus administrator, the focus was on students and learning.”

In 2000 or 2001, Lawson began attending Texas ASCD conferences and has been a member of the group for more than 20 years. One of her mentors, Dr. Elizabeth Clark, a Texas ASCD past president, encouraged Lawson to take on a leadership role in the organization. The association has many affiliates across the state, and initially Lawson was active in the Houston-area group before moving into statewide positions including Texas ASCD board member and cochair and chair of the group’s annual conference.

“Texas ASCD is a huge leader in supporting teachers and principals,” Lawson says. “We have something for everybody.”

Of the many benefits Texas ASCD offers its members, Lawson points to the strong professional network it provides as one of the most important.

“We are a network of professionals dealing with ways to support teachers and administrators,” she says. “We have that in common, so why not go ahead and work together?”

During her time as Texas ASCD president, Lawson has a long list of priorities. She will help the association continue to develop and build its strategic plan. In addition, she hopes to respond to current trends in education, including teacher shortages and financial challenges.

“With the basic allotment not being increased since 2019, a lot of us are struggling,” she says. “So I think we as an organization have to be responsive to that.”

Texas ASCD also offers several academies in various areas, such as one for principals, one focused on assessments and two around curriculum, among others. As president, Lawson plans to determine if new academics should be added. For example, in the last year, Texas ASCD added a paraprofessional and instructional aide academy to offer more training in those areas.

“The feedback so far has been very strong,” Lawson says. “So, we’ll continue to focus on enhancing our academies and really responding to the needs of our school districts.”

Through her presidency, Lawson hopes to take her mission of supporting educators to the statewide level. She plans to work collaboratively with the Texas ASCD board to increase the group’s membership and offerings to help public school employees, who she says are already feeling stressed from trying to meet students’ while responding to legislative changes.

“I’m honored to serve in this capacity, and I’m excited about the supports that we have in the works. There’s so much happening in education, and I feel these next couple of years are going to be pivotal.”

Texas Association for Curriculum and Development (Texas ASCD)

Membership: Texas ASCD membership includes superintendents, principals, teachers, curriculum directors, staff developers, students and professors.

Mission: Texas ASCD advances leadership and innovative capabilities of diverse educators and influences policy to ensure each child is healthy, safe, engaged, supported and challenged.

Year founded: 1947

Number of members: more than 3,000

Website: txascd.org

Enriching lives through responsive and flexible spaces for learning

70 years of educational facility design

DACIA RIVERS is editorial director of Texas School Business.

Texas ASCD is a huge leader in supporting teachers and principals. We have something for everybody.

Texas Council of Women School Executives

Lindsey Pollock leads TCWSE to amplify women in education

The newest president of the Texas Council of Women School Executives (TCWSE) is Dr. Lindsey Pollock, a veteran educator who comes to the post with more than 35 years of experience in a variety of school settings. Notably, from 2008 to 2021, Pollock served as principal of Garden Oaks Montessori, a Title 1 public school in Houston ISD (HISD). Throughout her education career, she spent 25 years working in public schools as a teacher, social worker, program developer and administrator. Recently, Pollock took a new position as provost and director of the College of Education at Sarasota University.

Education is a key component of Pollock’s DNA. She comes from a long line of public school educators — her maternal grandmother used to travel across Iowa on horseback to teach students in various towns. Her maternal grandfather was a public school custodian, and as a child, Pollock spent summers with him, watching him varnish and wax floors in school buildings.

Pollock’s parents were also both public school educators, and instilled in her a spirit of service.

“My family always emphasized service to others and the importance of public school education as our country’s foundation for a functioning and healthy democracy,” Pollock says.

Initially in her own career, Pollock was recruited by a private school, but decided to make the switch to the public system.

“I felt it important to be a part of something bigger that contributed to the well-being of all people, not only those who could afford another option,” she says.

Pollock’s commitment to social justice is a huge part of her personal philosophy, and she has been recognized for her efforts in that area by a number of groups, including the Human Rights Campaign. Her dedication to providing a top-tier education to all extends throughout her family. Pollock met her husband at a math summit in HISD, and all of the couple’s five children attended public schools. “My husband and I were both public school principals, and we found the connections and contributions to our communities the best rewards.”

Pollock joined TCWSE as soon as she was able, seeing immense benefit in belonging to a network of like-minded women school executives. Since Pollock joined, TCWSE has added several membership categories, opening up the group to more women in education.

“I’m happy to say that we now embrace all women in both public

and private settings,” Pollock says. “And you don’t have to be a sitting administrator to join, either. You can be a classroom leader and join us. We recently added membership categories for retirees and undergraduates, too.”

TCWSE’s three pillars of membership are mentoring, renewal and career advancement. The group offers professional development throughout the year, along with mentoring partnerships and an annual conference.

“What I most appreciate about TCWSE is that we are here to support all women who desire to have a network of people committed to their personal and professional best,” Pollock says.

During Pollock’s time as the council’s president, she is hoping to help guide the creation and support of TCWSE chapters across the state in an effort to continue to lift up women who are working to serve the children, families and school employees in their individual communities.

Texas Council of Women School Executives (TCWSE)

Mission: TCWSE’s mission is to create and maintain a united community of professional educational executives by promoting equity and quality in leadership through renewal, mentoring and career advancement support.

Membership: Anyone who supports TCWSE’s mission is invited to join the organization. Active and student memberships are available.

Year founded: 1984

Website: tcwse.org

What I most appreciate about TCWSE is that we are here to support all women who desire to have a network of people committed to their personal and professional best.

Who’s News

> Continued from page 9

Virginia Flores, who for the past three years has served as the district’s associate athletic director, has been promoted to athletic director. She has 24 years of experience in education, 20 of those in CFISD, where she also coached and worked as an assistant principal. She is a graduate of the University of Texas with a master’s degree in educational administration from Lamar University.

Superintendent Mark Henry has announced his upcoming retirement, effective in December. This will bring to a close a 42-year career in education, 32 of those as a superintendent and the last 12 in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD.

Matt Morgan, former assistant superintendent of facilities and construction, has been named associate superintendent and chief operations officer. He joined the district in 2000 as director of food services, a position he held for 12 years, when he was promoted to assistant superintendent of support services. He received his bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and his master’s degree in business administration from the University of Houston at Victoria.

A new assistant superintendent for school leadership has been announced. Irene Ruiz, former director of community programs, has more than 20 years of experience in education, 13 of those with CFISD. She previously worked in San Antonio’s Northside ISD and in Arlington ISD. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and her master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Texas at Arlington.

DeKalb ISD

Denton ISD

The Denton ISD Board of Trustees has approved Kent Laster as Braswell High School’s athletic coordinator and head football coach. He most recently held the same jobs at Waco ISD’s University High, and spent three seasons as head coach at Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas.

The district’s assistant director of fine arts is Kelley McGee, who brings more than a decade of experience to her new position. She is a graduate of the University of North Texas with a master’s degree in art education from the University of Florida.

Susannah O’Bara has been named Denton ISD’s deputy superintendent. Most recently the assistant superintendent of academic programs, she previously was an area superintendent and principal of Hawk Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas, where she also completed her doctorate, and her master’s degree in educational leadership from Texas Woman’s University.

The following principal assignments are also announced:

• Lauren Shapiro, Hawk Elementary School;

• Ashley Wright, Pecan Creek Elementary School.

Diboll ISD

Brian Bowman, newly appointed superintendent, comes to Diboll from Burleson ISD, where he was principal of Centennial High School. The University of Texas at Tyler graduate previously worked as a teacher, coach and principal in New Boston, Whitehouse, Harmony and Longview ISDs.

El Paso ISD

Ector County ISD (Odessa)

The district’s new executive director of talent development, Jaime Miller, has been with ECISD for 21 years, working as a teacher, dyslexia therapist, curriculum facilitator and principal. She was most recently executive director of curriculum and instruction.

Andrea Moreno-Hewitt has been approved as executive director of curriculum and instruction. Most recently principal of the elementary and high schools of Natalia ISD, she has 17 years of experience as an administrator.

Melissa Skinner is now the district’s executive director of leadership. She comes to ECISD from Cleveland ISD, bringing 30 years of experience as an assistant principal, principal, chief academic officer and deputy superintendent to her new position. Now serving as executive director of human resources, Matthew Spivy comes to ECISD with 18 years of experience in public education. He spent the past 11 years in Greenville ISD as executive director of administration, compliance and operations, director of human resources, dean of instruction at Greenville High and as a principal and assistant principal. Also, the following principal appointments have been announced:

• Abel Avila, Bush New Tech Odessa;

• Gloria Lopez, Goliad Elementary School;

• Noe Ortiz, Crockett Middle School;

• Christan Pugh, Blanton Elementary School;

• Mercedes Shirley, Ireland Elementary School;

• Kamye Smith, Bonham Middle School.

Fort Worth ISD

The Fort Worth Board of Education has announced the following administrative appointments:

• Christopher Barksdale, executive director of leadership;

• Sandra Benavidez-Perez, executive director of guidance and counseling;

DeKalb native

Donna McDaniel comes to her new job as superintendent from Texarkana College, where she was vice president of instruction. She previously worked in Hooks and Texarkana ISDs.

A new principal has been named for Lamar Elementary School. Patricia Lira served as the school’s assistant principal since 2015 and prior to that was a counselor at Clendenin Elementary. She holds two master’s degrees, in educational administration and educational psychology, from the University of Texas at El Paso.

Bernie Luna is Burges High School’s new athletic coordinator and head football coach. He has been the Mustangs’ associate head coach and defensive coordinator for the past eight years.

• Altagracia Guerrero, associate superintendent of learning and leading;

• Marie Mendoza, executive director of emergent bilingual;

• Olayinka Moore-Ojo, executive director of early learning;

• Marta Plata, executive director of student and family experience.

Frenship ISD (Wolfforth)

Layne Sheets, who led Jayton-Girard ISD as superintendent since 2021, is now assistant superintendent of secondary education for Frenship ISD.

Georgetown ISD

Fred Brent, who led the district for nine years, retired at the end of June.

An interim superintendent has been named for Georgetown ISD. Previously serving as chief strategist for leadership and culture, Lindsay Harris also worked as a classroom teacher and middle school principal. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where she also earned her master’s degree in educational administration.

Granbury ISD

The new principal of the STEAM Academy at Mambrino is Melissa Shipp, former assistant principal of Baccus Elementary School. The 21-year educator has also worked in Fort Worth ISD.

Hays CISD

Christina Courson, most recently chief of staff for Lockhart ISD, has returned to Hays CISD, where she began her career and worked as its public information officer, to serve as chief of human resources. She holds a bachelor’s degree from American University School of International Service and a master’s degree in leadership and change from St. Edward’s University.

Tim Robinson is the district’s new deputy chief of human resources. An educator for 24 years, he began his career in New Mexico, coming to Hays CISD in 2002 to work as a teacher, assistant principal and principal. His bachelor’s degree was awarded from the University of New Mexico and his master’s degree in educational administration from Texas State University.

Henrietta ISD

The Henrietta ISD Board of Trustees has named Jaime Clark superintendent. Most recently Lewisville ISD’s chief of elementary schools, she previously worked as a teacher and coach. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education administration from Tarleton State University.

Highland Park ISD (Dallas)

The district has chosen a new athletic director.

Lonnie Jordan comes to Highland Park from Richardson ISD, where he spent eight years as Lake Highlands High School’s athletic coordinator and head football coach. His 28 years of experience also include serving as athletic director of Lone Oak High School in Lone Oak ISD.

Candi Judd has retired after 33 years in education, the past seven at the helm of University Park Elementary School. Prior to joining Highland Park ISD, she was a teacher and instructional coach in Dallas and Richardson ISDs.

New superintendent

Mike Rockwood comes to Highland Park ISD from Lake Dallas ISD, where he held the top position for two years. Prior to his time there, he was deputy superintendent of Lamar CISD and held administrative positions in Sheldon ISD. He received his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University, his master’s degree in public relations from The George Washington University, and his doctorate in academic leadership from Baylor University.

Hondo ISD

A new superintendent is in place for Hondo ISD. Rose Mary Mares, who was most recently assistant superintendent, is a graduate of Hondo schools and has also been a teacher and campus administrator with the district.

Houston ISD

The Texas Education Agency has selected former Dallas ISD superintendent Mike Miles to lead Houston ISD as superintendent. In addition to his time in Dallas, he previously led the Harrison School District in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Hubbard ISD

The district’s newly appointed superintendent, Justin Turner, is a 19-year educator who has worked as a teacher, coach, assistant principal and secondary principal. Most recently Caldwell ISD’s high school principal, he holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s and doctoral degrees in education, all from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Humble ISD

Christy Erb, who began her career as a student teacher in Humble ISD, is now assistant superintendent of elementary schools. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University and her master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Former Humble High School defensive coordinator and assistant head football coach Robert Murphy is now the school’s head football coach and campus athletic coordinator. Prior to his time in Humble, he spent eight years on the coaching staff of New Caney ISD.

Hutto ISD

Superintendent Celina Estrada Thomas has announced her upcoming retirement, effective in August, which will conclude a 41-year career in education.

Jefferson ISD

The Jefferson ISD Board of Trustees has announced the following appointments:

• Melissa Watson, assistant principal, Jefferson High School;

• Hannah Welch, head softball coach.

Judson ISD (San Antonio)

The Judson ISD board of trustees has announced their selection of Milton Fields to serve as superintendent. He has served as interim superintendent since last November, and prior to that was deputy superintendent of student services and administration.

Katy ISD

Lance Carter has taken on the role of Katy ISD executive athletic director. With 33 years of experience as a coach and athletics administrator, he has spent 16 years with the district, serving as assistant athletic director since 2014. He holds an associate degree from Blinn College, a bachelor’s degree from East Texas State University, and a master’s degree from Lamar University.

The principal of Stockdick Junior High, Tanya Carrejo, comes to her new school from the district’s Taylor High School, where she was assistant principal. She began her career in Lamar CISD, going on to work in Fort Bend, Brazosport

> See Who’s News, page 28

Calendar

Professional development & events

AUGUST

August 1

TAGT New Coordinator Boot Camp

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 499-8248. www.txgifted.org

Cost: Members, $175; nonmembers, $275.

August 1-2

TASBO Workshop: Leadership Fundamentals

TASBO offices, Austin

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $550; nonmembers, $600.

August 2

TASB Workshop: Supervisor’s Guide to Managing Employee Performance

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org

Cost: $225.

August 4

TASB/TACCA Post-Legislative Seminar for Community Colleges and Their Attorneys

TASB offices, Austin

For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org

August 22

TASBO Workshop: Functions and Duties of School Business Administrators

El Paso ISD, El Paso

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $195; nonmembers, $245.

August 29

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 1 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org

SEPTEMBER

September 5

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 2 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

September 6-7

TASA First-Time Superintendents Academy (session 2 of 4) Austin Marriott North, Round Rock For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Cost: Members, $845 for all four sessions; nonmembers, $945 for all four sessions; $295 for any individual session.

September 7

ED311 Back to School Workshop

ESC Region 7, Kilgore, or virtual For more info, (512) 478-2113. www.ed311.com

Cost: $185 with access to digital workbook; $210 with printed workbook.

TASBO Workshop: Getting Things Done

TASBO offices, Austin For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO ESSER Grant Close-Out Workshop

ESC Region 1, Edinburg For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

TASPA Workshop: Certification Fundamentals

Tuloso-Midway ISD, Waco For more info, (512) 494-9353.

www.taspa.org

Cost: Members, $125; nonmembers, $160.

September 11-12

TASA/N2 Learning Executive Leadership Institute (session 1 of 4)

Lakeway Spa and Resort, Austin For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $4,500 for all four sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Principals’ Institute (session 1 of 6)

Lakeway Resort and Spa, Austin

For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $6,000 for all six sessions.

September 12

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 3 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

September 19

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 4 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

ED311 Back to School Workshop

ESC Region 17, El Paso, or virtual For more info, (512) 478-2113.

www.ed311.com

Cost: $185 with access to digital workbook; $210 with printed workbook.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls-area cohort (session 1 of 6)

Wichita Falls ISD, Wichita Falls For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, San Antonio-area cohort (session 1 of 6)

North East ISD, San Antonio

For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Workshop: PEIMS Fundamentals

Sheraton Brookhollow, Houston

For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

September 19-20

ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy (session 3 of 3)

Northside ISD, San Antonio For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

September 20

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Dallas-area cohort (session 1 of 6)

McKinney ISD, McKinney

For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, North Houston cohort (session 1 of 6)

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Cypress For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASPA Workshop: Certification Fundamentals

Northside ISD, San Antonio

For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.taspa.org

Cost: Members, $125; nonmembers, $160.

September 20-21

TASBO PEIMS Academy

Sheraton Brookhollow, Houston For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $385.

September 21

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, East Texas cohort (session 1 of 6)

Tyler ISD, Tyler For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, South Houston cohort (session 1 of 6)

Clear Creek ISD, Webster For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Workshop: School Office Fundamentals (part 1 of 2) Online

For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

September 21-22

ASCD Transformative Principal Leadership Academy (session 1 of 3)

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Cypress For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org

September 22

TASBO Workshop: Commodity Codes in Purchasing ESC Region 7, Kilgore For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

September 25

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 5 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, virtual cohort (session 1 of 6) Virtual event

For more info, (972) 515-2268 www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

September 26

ED311 Back to School Workshop Convention Center, New Braunfels, or virtual For more info, (512) 478-2113. www.ed311.com

Cost: $185 with access to digital workbook; $210 with printed workbook.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Corpus Christi-area cohort (session 1 of 6)

Corpus Christi ISD, Corpus Christi For more info, (972) 515-2268 www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASPA Workshop: Certification Fundamentals

Amarillo ISD, Amarillo For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.taspa.org

Cost: Members, $125; nonmembers, $160.

September 27

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Austin-area cohort (session 1 of 6)

Round Rock ISD, Round Rock For more info, (972) 515-2268 www.n2learning.org

TASPA Workshop: Documentation Basics

Floresville ISD, Floresville

For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.taspa.org

September 27-28

TASBO Internal Audit Academy

Embassy Suites Convention Center, Denton

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $385.

September 27-30

TheatreFest 2023

Moody Gardens, Galveston No phone number provided www.txeta.com

September 28

TASBO CSRM Workshop: Fundamentals of Risk Management

TASBO offices, Austin

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members and nonmembers, $250.

TASBO Workshop: School Office Fundamentals (part 2 of 2) Online

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

September 29

TASBO Workshop: Business Ethics Harris County Department of Education, Houston

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $195; nonmembers, $245.

September 29-October 1

txEDCON23 TASA | TASB Convention Hutchison Convention Center, Dallas

For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasa.tasb.org

Cost: Early registration (through Sept. 1): TASA/TASB members, $485; full boardsuperintendent team, $385; nonmembers, $585; students, $210. Late registration (Sept. 1-27): TASA/TASB members, $535; full board-superintendent team, $435; nonmembers, $635; students, $260. Onsite registration: TASA/TASB members, $585; full boardsuperintendent team, $485; nonmembers, $685; students, $310.

September 30

TASA Delegate Assembly

Omni Hotel, Dallas

For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org

OCTOBER

October 1-2

TASSP Fundamental 5 Summit Hilton Airport Hotel, Austin For more info, (512) 443-2100. www.tassp.org

October 2-3

TASPA Fall Conference

Kalahari Convention Center and Resort

For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.taspa.org

October 3

ED311 Back to School Workshop

ESC Region 10, Richardson, or virtual

For more info, (512) 478-2113. www.ed311.com

Cost: $185 with access to digital workbook; $210 with printed workbook.

TASBO Committee Connect

Courtyard by Marriott, Allen For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Free to all TASBO members.

TASBO ESSER Close-Out Grant Workshop

ESC Region 19, El Paso For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

October 3-5

TASA/CMSi Level 1 CMAT Workshop

TASA offices, Austin

For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Cost:TASA members, $800; nonmembers $900.

October 4

ED311 Back to School Workshop

ESC Region 11, Fort Worth, or virtual

For more info, (512) 478-2113. www.ed311.com

Cost: $185 with access to digital workbook; $210 with printed workbook.

October 4-5

TASBO Workshop: Leadership Fundamentals

Harris County Department of Education, Houston

October 5

TASBO Workshop: Functions and Duties of School Business Administrators

ESC 6, Huntsville

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $195; nonmembers, $245.

October 6

TASBO Workshop: Approaches to Leadership and Management

ESC Region 6, Huntsville

For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $195; nonmembers, $245.

TETL Fall Summit

Prosper ISD, Prosper

For more info, (855) 458-9286. www.tetl.org

October 9-10

TEPSA Assistant Principals’ Conference

Renaissance Hotel, Austin

For more info, (512) 478-5268 or (800) 252-3631.

www.tepsa.org

Cost: By Sept. 9: Members, $299; nonmembers, $359. After Sept. 9: Members, $349; nonmembers, $409.

October 10

TASBO Workshop: Purchasing Fundamentals

Sheraton, Georgetown

For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

October 10-11

TASA Texas Public Accountability Consortium Meeting Location and city TBA

For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

October 10-12

TASA/CMSi Level 1 CMAT Workshop

TASA offices, Austin

For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Cost: TASA members, $800; nonmembers $900.

October 11-12

ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy (session 1 of 3)

Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD, Bedford For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions. > See Calendar, page 26

Cost: Members, $550; nonmembers, $600.

TASBO Purchasing Academy

Sheraton, Georgetown

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $385.

October 13

TASBO Workshop: Getting Things Done

Frenship ISD, Wolfforth

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $375; nonmembers, $425.

TASBO Workshop: Operational Auditing Harris County Department of Education, Houston

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $195; nonmembers, $245.

October 17

TASA School Transformation Network (event 1 of 6)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Cost: $150-$500, based on district ADA

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 6 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org

October 17-18

TASA/N2 Learning Principals’ Institute (session 2 of 6)

Hilton Park Cities, Dallas

For more info, (972) 515-2268 www.n2learning.org

Cost: $6,000 for all six sessions.

October 18-19

TASBO Accounting and Finance Academy

American Bank Center, Corpus Christi

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $385.

October 19-20

TASBO School Operations Conference

American Bank Center, Corpus Christi

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $385; associate members, $600; associate nonmembers, $750.

October 24

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 7 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, San Antonio-area cohort (session 2 of 6) North East ISD, San Antonio For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls-area cohort (session 2 of 6) Wichita Falls ISD, Wichita Falls For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Workshop: Payroll Fundamentals Embassy Suites Convention Center, Denton For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

October 24-26

TASA Future-Ready Superintendents’ Leadership Network (session 1 of 3) Canyon ISD, Canyon For more info, (512) 477-6361.

www.tasanet.org

TASA/CMSi Level 2 CMAT Workshop

TASA offices, Austin For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Cost: TBA.

October 25

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Dallas-area cohort (session 2 of 6) McKinney ISD, McKinney

For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, North Houston cohort (session 2 of 6)

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Cypress For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

October 25-26

TASBO Payroll Academy

Embassy Suites Convention Center, Denton

For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $385.

October 26

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, South Houston cohort (session 2 of 6) Clear Creek ISD, Webster For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, East Texas cohort (session 2 of 6) Tyler ISD, Tyler For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

October 26-27

ASCD Transformative Principal Leadership Academy (session 2 of 3)

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Cypress For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org

TASB Conference for Administrative Professionals TASB offices, Austin For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272.

www.tasb.org

Cost: $180.

October 29-31

ASCD Annual Conference Marriott RiverCenter, San Antonio For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

Texas ASCD Annual Conference Marriott RiverCenter, San Antonio For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

October 30

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, virtual cohort (session 2 of 6) Virtual event

For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

NOVEMBER

November 1

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Austin-area cohort (session 2 of 6) Round Rock ISD, Round Rock For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

November 1-2

TASA First-Time Superintendents Academy (session 3 of 4) Austin Marriott North, Round Rock For more info, (512) 477-6361.

www.tasanet.org

Cost: Members, $845 for all four sessions; nonmembers, $945 for all sessions; $295 for any individual session.

November 1-3

TCA Professional Growth Conference

Marriott Marquis, Houston

For more info, (512) 472-3403. www.txca.org

Cost: Early Bird registration (until June 30): Professional, $175; student, retired and new professional, $150. Regular registration (after June 30): TBA.

November 2

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Corpus Christi-area cohort (session 2 of 6)

Corpus Christi ISD, Corpus Christi For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

November 2-3

TASBO Synergy Conference

Sheraton Hotel, Georgetown For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members and nonmembers, $335.

November 3

TASBO Workshop: Introduction to Payroll

Harris County Department of Education, Houston For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $195; nonmembers, $245.

November 5-6

TEPSA Grow Leadership Conference

Renaissance Hotel, Austin For more info, (512) 478-5268 or (800) 252-3621.

www.tepsa.org

Cost: By Oct. 6, $399. After Oct. 6: $429.

November 6-7

ASCD Transformational Principal Leadership Academy (session 1 of 3)

ESC Region 7, Kilgore

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org

November 7

TASA School Transformation Network (event 2 of 6)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Cost: $150-$500, based on district ADA

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 8 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

November 7-9

TASA/CMSi Curriculum Writing Workshop

TASA offices, Austin

For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Cost: Cost: TASA members, $600; nonmembers $650.

November 13

TASBO Workshop: Budget Fundamentals

Courtyard Marriott, Allen

For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $285.

November 14

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 9 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

November 14-15

TASA/N2 Learning Executive Leadership Institute (session 2 of 4)

Hilton Post Oak, Houston

For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $4,500 for all four sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Principals’ Institute (session 3 of 6)

Hilton Post Oak, Houston

For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $6,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Budget Academy Courtyard Marriott, Allen For more info, (512) 462-1711.

www.tasbo.org

Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $385.

November 15-16

ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy (session 2 of 3)

Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD, Bedford For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

November 23

ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 10 of 12)

Virtual event

For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

November 28

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, San Antonio-area cohort (session 3 of 6)

North East ISD, San Antonio For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls-area cohort (session 3 of 6)

Wichita Falls ISD, Wichita Falls For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

November 29

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, North Houston cohort (session 3 of 6)

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Cypress For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

November 29-December 1

Gifted23 Conference Location TBA, Dallas For more info, (512) 499-8248. www.txgifted.org

November 29-December 2

TAPHERD Annual Convention Convention Center, Fort Worth For more info, (512) 459-1299. www.tahperd.org

November 30

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Dallas-area cohort (session 3 of 6)

McKinney ISD, McKinney

For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, South Houston cohort (session 3 of 6)

Clear Creek ISD, Webster For more info, (972) 515-2268

www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions. <

Who’s News

> Continued from page 23

and Waller ISDs. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas State University and a master’s degree from the University of Houston at Victoria.

When Katy’s newest campus and 10th high school, as yet unnamed, opens its doors in the fall of 2024, it will be led by Gina Cobb, who will finish out this academic year as principal of Mayde Creek High and assume her new role this summer. She has been with the district since 1999 as a teacher, coach and assistant and associate principal as well as principal.

The district has named Kristin Harper assistant superintendent. The 21-year educator has spent most of her career in Katy ISD, working as a teacher, assistant principal and, most recently, principal of Seven Lakes Junior High.

Tays Junior High will have a new principal this fall.

Tara Haworth, former assistant principal of the school, has spent her 13-year career in Katy ISD. She is a graduate of the University of Houston with a master’s degree in educational administration from Lamar University.

Deborah Hubble, newly appointed assistant superintendent, is a 25-year educator who initially was a teacher in Spring Branch ISD and Lamar CISD. She joined Katy ISD in 2008 and has served as principal of Morton Ranch Elementary School since that time.

Kaufman ISD

Kaufman ISD’s new superintendent, Joshua Garcia, comes to the district from serving as Aransas County ISD’s superintendent. He has been an educator for 24 years, 19 of those in administrative positions. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University, a master of divinity degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, a master’s degree in education from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a doctorate in education from Dallas Baptist University.

Keller ISD

The following principal appointments have been announced for the district:

• Jorge Acevedo, Caprock Elementary School;

• Courtney Brandel, Florence Elementary School;

• Phillip Daurio, Indian Springs Middle School;

• Jeff Dickeson, Trinity Meadows Intermediate School;

• Angel Magruder, North Riverside Elementary School;

• Gary Mantz, Perot Elementary School;

• Roby Nunn, Sunset Valley Elementary School;

• Clarence Scott, Parkview Elementary School;

• Jason Snyder, Freedom Elementary School.

Kilgore ISD

Kilgore Middle School’s new principal is Cindy Lindley, who has spent her entire 24year career with the district. For the past eight years she has led Chandler Elementary. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from the University of Texas at Tyler and earned a second master’s degree and doctorate from Stephen F. Austin State University.

La Joya ISD

The La Joya ISD Board of Trustees has named Beto Gonzalez its interim superintendent. An employee of the district for 35 years, he has served as a teacher and administrator.

Lamar CISD

Tamarron Elementary School’s principal, Ruth Riha, comes to her new school from Fort Bend ISD, where she was principal of Barrington Place and Meadows elementaries. An educator for 23 years, she has been a principal for 18 of those. She graduated from Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi, going on to gain a master’s degree in educational administration from the same institution.

Leander ISD

Sarah Grissom has been promoted from chief of schools and strategic initiatives to chief of staff. Prior to her most recent assignment, she was an area superintendent, principal of Faubion Elementary, assistant

principal and secondary math facilitator. Her bachelor’s degree was earned from the University of Texas and her master’s and doctoral degrees in educational administration from Texas State University and Concordia University, respectively.

Alicia Harris has been selected as principal of Knowles Elementary School. She returns to Leander ISD, where she worked from 2006 to 2019, from serving as principal of Burnet CISD’s Bertram Elementary. A graduate of St. Edward’s University, she completed her master’s degree in teacher leadership from Lamar University.

Christy Hilbun has been chosen to serve as principal of Giddens Elementary School. An employee of the district since 2004, she most recently led Tarvin Elementary since its opening in 2020. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Lamar University.

Darla Smith, Wiley Middle School’s new principal, has been with the district since 2006, most recently as associate principal of Rouse High School. She received her bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University, followed by a master’s degree in education administration from Texas A&M University.

Lewisville ISD

Indian Creek Elementary School’s new principal, Jennifer Driver, is a 24-year educator who was most recently assistant principal of Rockbrook Elementary. She previously worked as a teacher and principal in Overton, Venus and Mt. Vernon ISDs. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University at Commerce. Griffin Middle School’s new principal, Jacob Garlinger, is a 22-year educator who was associate principal of Hebron High School. He began his career in Richardson ISD, where he was an assistant and head band director. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and master’s and doctoral degrees from Lamar University.

Tina Krol has moved from Killian Middle School, where she was principal, to take the top job at Briarhill Middle School. She has spent her 16-year career in the district, working as a math teacher and assistant principal as well as principal. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of North Texas and a doctorate in educational administration from Dallas Baptist University.

Now leading Liberty Elementary School as principal is Matt Rainey, who joins that campus after three years as assistant principal of Indian Creek Elementary. During his 14-year education career, he also served as an assistant principal for the district’s secondary summer school. He received his bachelor’s degree from Texas

State University and his master’s degree from Capella University.

Tabitha Richardson, newly named principal of Morningside Elementary School, comes to Lewisville from Frisco ISD, where she was assistant principal of Spears Elementary. She has been an educator for 21 years, 15 of those as a teacher. Her bachelor’s degree was awarded from West Texas A&M University and her master’s degree from Tarleton State University.

New Independence Elementary School principal Laura Sherer for the past five years held the top job at Rosemeade Elementary in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, a district in which she spent 15 years. She is a graduate of Lubbock Christian University with a master’s degree from Dallas Baptist University.

LaShundra Wilson is the newly appointed principal of Degan Elementary School, where she was assistant principal from 2016 to 2019. For the past four years, she has held that position at Lewisville High School Killough. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas Southern University and her master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Little Elm ISD

The position of executive director for construction services has been filled by Mickey James. He previously was a contract manager for Dallas ISD and spent six years as Frisco ISD’s construction manager.

Kristi Roberts is the district’s new executive director for special populations, a promotion from her role as assistant director for special education. She previously worked in Mesquite and Denton ISDs.

Lockhart ISD

Susan Fambrough, former director of human resources, has been promoted to chief human resource officer. Prior to joining Lockhart ISD, she was Eanes ISD’s chief learning officer.

Bluebonnet Elementary School has welcomed Emily Marshall as principal. The district’s new director of curriculum and instruction is Belinda Vasquez, former principal of Bluebonnet Elementary School. Now leading Lockhart High School as principal is Cynthia Vasquez, who has been the district’s director of bilingual/ ESL programs since 2021. Prior to that assignment, she was principal of Uhland Elementary in Hays CISD.

Lufkin ISD

Andre Emmons, newly named executive director of operations and safety, began his career in Lufkin ISD as a basketball coach, going on to serve as a principal in Diboll ISD before returning to Lufkin two years ago as principal of Lufkin High. He is a graduate of the University of North Texas with master’s and doctoral degrees in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University. Six new principal assignments have also been announced. They are:

• Adam Craft, ACE Academy;

• Amanda Gentry, Herty Primary School;

• Tarsha Henderson, Trout Primary School;

• Julie McManus, Lufkin High School;

• Heather Reid, Anderson Elementary School;

• Cindy Stewart, Brookhollow Elementary School.

McKinney ISD

Gordon Butler has been appointed assistant superintendent of strategic processes and community engagement. He returns to McKinney ISD, where he previously worked as an assistant principal and principal of McKinney High School, having served as chief executive officer of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Austin.

Newly appointed assistant superintendent of teaching, learning and accountability

Amber Epperson has led Cockrill Middle School since 2014 after beginning her career in Mesquite ISD 24 years ago. She then was an educational consultant for ESC Region 10 before coming to Mesquite ISD.

Molly Hovan, who spent the past eight years as principal of Glen Oaks Elementary School, is now the district’s senior director of teaching and learning. She began her career in Frisco ISD, joining McKinney ISD in 2009.

New senior director of legal affairs

Aretha Jackson has arrived in McKinney from Allen ISD, where for the past four years she was principal of Kerr Elementary School. She previously worked in McKinney ISD as a teacher and instructional coach.

Melanie Raleeh now serves as the district’s assistant superintendent of elementary student support. She has 30 years of experience as an educator, 18 of those as a McKinney ISD principal. She opened McClure Elementary in 2010 and has served as principal of Walker Elementary for the past four years. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and a master’s degree from Texas A&M University at Commerce.

Now serving as assistant superintendent of communications is Shelly Spaulding, a 19-year educator who was most recently principal of McKinney High School after joining the district in 2008. She received her bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington. She is at work on her doctorate. The district has welcomed Dennis Womack as assistant superintendent of business, operations and technology. He comes to his new position from Coppell ISD, where he was for the last two years chief operations officer. He previously worked in McKinney ISD as senior director of technology and information services and as assistant superintendent for plant management. Also, six principal assignments had been announced. They are:

• Kristi Andrews, Glen Oaks Elementary School;

• Michelle Baumann, Walker Elementary School;

• David Hodum, Evans Middle School;

• Paula Kent, McKinney High School;

• Kristen Patterson, Johnson Elementary School;

• Jenny Zornes, Cockrill Middle School.

Manor ISD

Most recently Hutto ISD’s associate superintendent and formerly an employee of Round Rock and Austin ISDs, Robert Sormani now leads Manor ISD as superintendent. He has been an educator for 23 years, including a previous stint with Manor ISD as director of curriculum and instruction. He holds a doctorate in educational administration. Additionally, three new principal assignments have been made. They are:

• Krystle Austin, Manor Elementary School;

• Leticia Jones, Manor New Tech Middle School;

• Anastasia Mirelez, Manor Excel Academy.

Marble Falls ISD

Now serving as Marble Falls ISD superintendent is Jeff Gasaway, who held the top position on an interim basis since January and previously was assistant and deputy superintendent of administration.

Who’s News

> Continued from page 29

Mesquite ISD

The district has created a new position, director of safety and security, and hired Jeffrey Moore to fill it. He has 12 years of law enforcement experience in Georgia and Florida.

Midland ISD

The new principal of Legacy High School is Mich Etzel, a product of Midland ISD schools who was most recently Columbus ISD’s high school principal. She has been an educator for 20 years, seven of those as a campus administrator.

Miller Grove ISD

Linda Rankin has received a promotion from principal of Miller Grove High School to district superintendent. The 18-year educator previously held teaching, coaching and administrative positions in Greenville, Sulphur Springs and ComoPickton ISDs. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and her master’s and doctoral degrees from Lamar University.

New Braunfels ISD

New Braunfels ISD has hired a new superintendent. Laurelyn Arterbury was an administrator in Leander ISD since 2016, serving as area superintendent, executive director of college and career pathways, and chief staff. Prior to those assignments, she spent 16 years as a teacher, assistant principal and principal in Round Rock ISD.

Northside ISD (San Antonio)

The district announces the following administrative appointments:

• Gina Austin, academic dean, Sotomayor High School;

• Kimberly Contreras-Tamez, principal, Knowlton Elementary School;

• Jeremy Deck, director of plant maintenance;

• Lance Enderlin, principal, Construction Careers Academy;

• Jennifer Foley-Ventura, associate principal, Hull Elementary School;

• Aurelio Hernandez, principal, Taft High School;

• Lillyana Hinojosa, principal, Henderson Elementary School;

• Vicki Kilpatrick, principal, McAndrew Elementary School;

• Lisa Mendez, principal, Carson Elementary School;

• Sara Ramirez, principal, Allen Elementary School;

• Erika Zagala, principal, Mora Elementary School.

Oglesby ISD

Shane Webb has been selected to serve as superintendent of Oglesby ISD.

Paris ISD

Althea Dixon is now serving as the district’s superintendent. She was most recently assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction and accountability. Superintendent Paul Jones has retired, bringing to a close a career that spanned 31 years. He led Paris ISD for 10 years.

Peaster ISD

The Peaster ISD Board of Trustees has named Kendra Pittman its new superintendent. She spent the past five years as assistant and then associate superintendent of Royal ISD and has 23 years of experience as a teacher and administrator.

Pflugerville ISD

The next principal of Parmer Lane Elementary School is Michelle Martinez, who comes to Pflugerville from Laredo ISD, where she was a principal since 2019. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M International University and her master’s degree from Sam Houston State University.

Plano ISD

David Jones, newly appointed principal of Plano East Senior High, has spent the past 16 years with the district as a teacher, coach, assistant principal and lead principal of Shepton High. His bachelor’s and master’s degrees were awarded from Texas A&M University.

Kennitra Robertson has accepted the position of principal of Vines High School. She has been with the district since 2007 as a teacher, assistant principal and, most recently, principal of Robinson Middle School. Now working on her doctorate in educational leadership from Dallas Baptist University, she is a graduate of Louisiana State University

with a master’s degree in educational administration from Texas A&M University at Commerce.

Tyrell White has stepped into the role of director of special education. He comes to Plano from Midland ISD, where he was executive director of special services, and previously worked in Beaumont and Ferris ISDs. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas, his master’s degree from Texas Christian University, and his doctorate in special education and leadership from the University of the Cumberlands.

Round Rock ISD

The new principal of Union Hill Elementary School is Anthony Bane. He was assistant principal of Taylor Creek Elementary in Lampasas ISD since 2022 and previously held the same position in Bell’s Hill and Dean Highlands elementaries in Waco ISD. He is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University with a master’s degree in educational administration from Texas A&M University Central Texas.

Now serving as area superintendent is Logan Faris, who was executive director of secondary education in Northwest ISD in Justin since 2015. The 30-year educator earned his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from Stephen F. Austin State University.

England Elementary School’s new principal is Krystall Williams, who has served as assistant principal since 2020. Prior to that, she was a teacher at Fern Bluff and Perot elementary schools in Keller ISD. The 20-year educator earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and her master’s degree from the University of Phoenix.

San Angelo ISD

The district’s new chief financial officer and assistant superintendent of business support services is Merl Brandon, who previously was principal of Lincoln Middle School and assistant principal of Central High School Oakes Campus.

Now serving as director of community relations is Sun Cha, who comes to San Angelo with a decade of experience in the private sector in journalism, advertising, public relations and business development.

Central High School’s new principal is Jill Ross, who comes to her new job from leading Lake Belton High School in Belton ISD.

Bill Waters has retired after serving as principal of Central High School for 15 years.

San Marcos CISD

San Marcos High School’s new principal is Cynthia Rinehart, who held the position on an interim basis for the 2022-23 academic year. An educator with 34 years of experience, 21 of those as an administrator, she holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a master’s degree in education from Trinity University.

Marlyn Young now serves as principal of Miller Middle School. The 27-year educator has worked as an instructional coach, interventionist, behavior coordinator, assistant principal and principal. She has a bachelor’s degree from McMurry University, a master’s degree in administration from Phoenix University, and a doctorate in special education from Northcentral University.

Shallowater ISD

Kelsey Morris is the new assistant principal of Shallowater Intermediate School. A 14year educator who holds a master’s degree in educational leadership, she has served as a teacher, team leader and coach.

Levi Savage is now the district’s head volleyball coach.

Sherman ISD

Josh Aleman is Sherman High School’s new head football coach and boys’ athletics coordinator. Most recently offensive coordinator at Denton ISD’s Braswell High School, he has returned to Sherman ISD, where he previously coached. He is a graduate of Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

The principal of Piner Middle School, Jeff Chancellor, comes to his new job from Sherman High School, where he was CTE, military and workforce coordinator. Prior to that, he was the school’s assistant principal. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in education administration from Lamar University.

Sherman Middle School’s new principal, Santos Flores, was most recently principal of Neblett Elementary and brings over 25 years of experience to his new position. He is a graduate of Texas State University with a master’s degree in education administration from Texas A&M University at Kingsville.

Scott Johnston, who was principal of Sherman Middle School, now holds the top job at Sherman High School. Former Piner Middle School principal Amy Pesina has been promoted to chief academic officer for Sherman ISD.

Terrell ISD

Tracie Washington has accepted the position of deputy superintendent of leading and learning. She began her career in 2005 in Mt. Pleasant ISD, then worked in DeSoto and Dallas ISDs. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University at Commerce and a doctorate in education from the University of Texas.

Texarkana ISD

The new principal of Texas High School is Ben Renner, who joins the district from Cleburne ISD, where he was principal of Cleburne High. He has more than 20 years of administrative experience and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Lakesha Taylor has stepped into the role of executive director of student and family support services, transitioning from her previous position as director of CTE (career and technical education) and STEM education. An employee of the district since 2004, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University at Texarkana.

Three Way ISD (Stephenville)

Teddy Ott, former assistant superintendent of Walnut Springs ISD, now leads Three Way ISD as superintendent. An educator for 15 years, he has served as a special education teacher, coordinator and director and as a campus principal.

Victoria ISD

Denise Moreno has returned to Victoria ISD as principal of the Stroman STEM Academy. She previously led Welder Middle School and Shields Elementary and was junior high principal in Falfurrias ISD. She has a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Houston at Victoria. Victoria West High School’s new principal, Tonya Patterson, brings 15 years of experience to her new job, the past eight in Alvin ISD, where she was principal of Rodeo Palms Junior High. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biological science, two master’s degrees, in biological science and environmental science, and a doctorate in educational leadership.

Mandi Prichard, who was most recently assistant principal of Shields Elementary School, now leads Mission Valley Elementary. She earned her master’s degree in educational leadership from Lamar University.

Yasmina St. Jean, newly named principal of Crain Elementary School, has more than a decade of educational experience, all in Victoria ISD. The former principal of Shields Elementary School earned her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in administration and supervision from the University of Houston at Victoria.

Waco ISD

University High School’s new head football coach and athletic coordinator is Kaeron Johnson, who comes to Waco ISD from Midway ISD, where he was assistant head football coach and defensive coordinator at Midway High. He previously coached in Katy ISD and Lamar CISD. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and a master’s degree in education from Concordia University.

> See Who’s News, page 32

> Continued from page 31

Weslaco ISD

Richard Rivera has come out of retirement to take the position of superintendent of Weslaco ISD. A former employee of the district as well as a member of its board of trustees, he retired 12 years ago. During that period, he served as an interim superintendent of Edcouch-Elsa and Monte Alto ISDs.

West Oso ISD (Corpus Christi)

Kimberly Moore, who served as interim superintendent since January, is now district superintendent. A graduate of the University of Michigan with a master’s degree in education from Vanderbilt University, she has been an educator for 32 years. At West Oso, in addition to her most recent position, she was director of STEM, advanced academics and career and technical education.

Whiteface CISD

Josh Damron, newly appointed superintendent, taught and coached in Haskell, Whitewright, Winters and Albany ISDs before joining Idalou ISD, where he most was district principal. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and master’s degrees from Lamar University and Lubbock Christian University. <

> Continued from page 11

The Texas Association of School Boards Risk Management Fund collaborates with Beazley to offer Texas school districts cybersecurity coverage with a limit of $250,000 to cover the cost for computer expert services, legal services, call center services, public relations consultancy services, credit/identity monitoring services, cyber extortion loss, fraudulent instruction loss, telecommunications fraud, data protection loss, and business interruption loss. Districts can purchase higher limits up to $1 million, with additional underwriting and contributions.

What factors can assist the school district in obtaining affordable insurance?

When purchasing additional cybersecurity insurance, insurance providers consider various factors to determine the premiums and coverage amounts. These factors include the school district’s cybersecurity posture, risk management practices, and compliance with data privacy and security regulations. They are looking for tools and protocols in place for identification, authentication, authorization and accountability, and a reasonable amount of network security, including at least intrusion, firewall, DMZ and traffic inspection. Districts may be required to provide their cybersecurity plan and a self-assessment based on a cybersecurity framework such as NIST or the Texas Cybersecurity Framework. Obtaining a state or national cybersecurity certification such as the Texas CyberStar Certificate or the Trusted Learning Environment seal can be advantageous. Texas school districts can demonstrate to insurance providers that they have taken proactive steps to mitigate cybersecurity risks and protect their data and assets, which can lead to lower insurance premiums and higher coverage amounts. The Texas CyberStar Certificate is a statewide cybersecurity certification program for K-12 schools that promotes awareness and implementation of best practices in cybersecurity. It provides a framework for school districts to assess their cybersecurity posture and improve their cybersecurity defenses. Currently three Texas school districts have received

the Texas CyberStar Certificate — Corpus Christi, Round Rock and Deer Park ISDs. The Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) seal is a national certification program that recognizes school districts that demonstrate a commitment to protecting student data privacy and security. It provides a framework for school districts to assess their data privacy and security practices and ensure that they comply with state and federal laws and regulations. Six of the 22 national school districts that have been awarded the TLE seal are from Texas. They are Goose Creek CISD and Corpus Christi, Cypress-Fairbanks, Leander, Lewisville and Round Rock ISDs.

What can school administrators do to assist their school districts in protecting their technology assets?

Texas Education Technology Leaders (TETL) is the Texas state chapter of CoSN and is the premier organization for technology leaders in Texas K-12 school districts. The organization’s mission is to “empower education technology leaders … for today and tomorrow.” School district technology leaders can further their knowledge and skills related to K-12 technology leadership, including cybersecurity, through membership and participation in TETL. Go to https://tetl. org to learn more about TETL’s advocacy initiative seeking cybersecurity resources for Texas school districts in the amount of $55 million.

DR. KARI MURPHY is chief technology officer for Deer Park ISD and current TETL chair.

DIGITAL

FRONTIER

The Texas CyberStar Certificate is a statewide cybersecurity certification program for K-12 schools that promotes awareness and implementation of best practices in cybersecurity.

Teen suicide: “It only happens to other families.”

by Riney Jordan

This is the story of a young man whom we shall call Matthew. He was an extremely bright young man, 14 years of age, polite, full of life, and brightened any room into which he walked.

This past spring, he attended the prom at his collegiate-level high school. Yes, you read that correctly — a collegiate-level high school that only accepted the best of the best. It was here that he excelled in every class.

You will recall that I said that he was extremely bright. To validate my point, let me share that he had already earned his associate degree while still a freshman in high school. This exceptional young man was destined for amazing things.

One Friday night in late spring, he was excited about attending his first high school prom; however, he came home from that event in a despondent mood. He didn’t want to talk about the dance, so he went immediately to his room. The next day he still seemed depressed. Unusually quiet. This was out of character for him.

On Sunday, he and his mother went to church, as was the usual routine for that day. He seemed more like himself, but still did not discuss any problems he might have encountered at the prom.

On Monday morning, he was reluctant to go to school. His mom insisted, so he went. About 10 that morning, he asked to be excused. As we later learned, he used this time to send a text message to every member of his family, telling them how much he loved them and what they meant to him.

When he returned to class, he sat there staring into space for several minutes. Then, he stood up, pulled a small-caliber pistol from his pocket, and shot a bullet through his head.

All of this happened in front of his fellow classmates, his teacher, as well as the students

who witnessed while in the atrium on the other side of the glass wall. We may never know exactly what triggered this event. And at this point, it might not even matter. What happened left his family and friends devastated, heartbroken, and asking the question, “Why?”

Such stories are becoming far too frequent. In the U.S., suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people age 15 to 24. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, “nearly 20% of high school students report serious thoughts of suicide and 9% have made an attempt to take their lives in the last year.”

Dr. Carl Fleisher, who specializes in adolescent and child psychiatry at the Boston Child Study Center, says, “teenagers and young adults have had rising rates of suicide compared to 10 years or 15 years ago.”

The question we all ask is still, “Why?”

Our world is so different than it was just a few short years ago. Perhaps we can blame peer pressure, social networking, collapse of the nuclear home, a decline in morality, or any number of other factors that we believe help contribute to a world in which it’s becoming ever more difficult to cope. However, as we prepare for a new school year, I challenge every school employee to watch for changes in our students’ behaviors. Get to know them better than perhaps you ever have!

I love the Latin phrase, “in loco parentis,” which simply means “in the place of a parent.” Look at each child as if he or she was your own, and care deeply about each one. By the way, the story of “Matthew” is real. He was the younger brother of our granddaughter’s husband.

We pray that, somehow, this tragedy will save other young people from making the same mistake.

RINEY JORDAN is the author of two books and a frequent public speaker. To invite him to speak at your convocation, graduation or awards banquet, visit www.rineyjordan.com.