July/August 2024 Texas School Business

Texas School Business

In COVID’s wake

Texas schools respond to the one-two punch of attendance decline and behavioral issues Also in

Dacia Rivers

WFrom the editor

elcome to summer! I hope you’re able to take some time to reset while classrooms and hallways are relatively empty. Summer is a great time for reflection and inspiration, and a great time to reconnect with family and catch your breath before a new school year kicks off.

In this issue of Texas School Business, we tackle a topic that’s everywhere you look lately. Chronic absenteeism soared after COVID closures, and we spoke to some Texas superintendents to see what they’ve done to try to entice students back into the classroom. The superintendents also touch on the increased behavioral issues schools have seen post-pandemic, and offer some insight into what administrators can do to prevent, rather than just respond to, these issues. It’s a piece you won’t want to miss, and it kicks off on page 10.

If you’d like to share what’s worked for you in your district, I welcome your emails at drivers@texasschoolbusiness.com. There’s no such thing as too many ideas, and when it comes to the success of Texas public schools, we are all in this together.

As always, thank you for reading Texas School Business. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and we’ll see you back in these pages in September to kick off another school year.

Dacia Rivers Editorial Director

Texas School Business

JULY/AUGUST 2024

Volume LXXI, Issue 4 406 East 11th Street

Austin, Texas 78701

Phone: 512-477-6361

www.texasschoolbusiness.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Dacia Rivers

DESIGN

Phaedra Strecher

COLUMNISTS

Karen Gage

Carrie Henry

Riney Jordan

Jim Walsh

ADVERTISING SALES

Jennifer Garrido

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kevin Brown

DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING

Amy Francisco

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, Thomas C. Murray, 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 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, Dwight Carter, Jimmy Casas, Thomas C. Murray, 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 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 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

TWhy you might

hearing about a 1952 SCOTUS case

by Jim Walsh

hose who seek more religious instruction for students in public schools are trotting out Zorach v. Clauson, a 1952 decision by the Supreme Court. They claim that this case allows students to leave school in the middle of the day to attend religious instruction elsewhere. This is known as “released time.”

Sure enough, the Supreme Court in 1952 held that New York City’s “released time” program did not violate the Establishment Clause. Key quotes:

There is much talk of the separation of Church and State in the history of the Bill of Rights and in the decisions clustering around the First Amendment. There cannot be the slightest doubt that the First Amendment reflects the philosophy that Church and State should be separated. And as far as interference with the “free exercise” of religion and an “establishment” of religion are concerned, the separation must be complete and unequivocal.

The First Amendment, however, does not say that in every and all respects there shall be a separation of Church and State.

The Court in 1952 put this in context by noting “the religious nature of our people”: When the state encourages religious instruction or cooperates with religious authorities by adjusting the schedule of public events to sectarian needs, it follows the best of our traditions. For it then respects the religious nature of our people and accommodates the public service to their spiritual needs. To hold that it may not would be to find in the Constitution a requirement that the

government show a callous indifference to religious groups. That would be preferring those who believe in no religion to those who do believe.

The most recent decision from the Supreme Court involving religion in public schools, Kennedy v. Bremerton School District, emphasizes that the government must be neutral regarding religion — neither promotional nor hostile. Maybe “agnostic” would be the most descriptive term. But it’s very likely that the current Supreme Court would agree with its predecessors that “encouraging” and “accommodating” religious instruction fits nicely under the umbrella of neutrality.

School board members are likely to hear about this 72-year old decision in public comment from those who want kids to be excused from class to study the Bible or engage in other religious oriented instruction. But just because it was OK in New York in 1952 does not mean it is OK in Texas in 2024. You have to consider state law.

Apparently, the New York City policy in 1952 did not violate state law. In 2024 Texas, however, our compulsory attendance laws require kids to stay in class for the full day. There are many exceptions for such things as medical appointments and religious holy days. But we do not have an exception for religious instruction. That’s the current state of the law. There’s another session coming up soon. Don’t be surprised if the 2025 legislature considers a bill to authorize “released time.”

Zorach v. Clauson was decided on April 28, 1952, in a 6-3 decision written by Justice Douglas. The cite is 343 U.S. 306.

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: @jwalshtxlawdawg.

Who’s News

Abilene ISD

The Abilene High School girls’ basketball program now has Alfonzo Franklin as head coach. He comes to Abilene from Hale Center ISD, where he held the same position. Prior to that, he spent his career in coaching positions in Sudan, Littlefield and Lubbock ISDs.

Bassetti Elementary School’s next principal, Sherry Gumm, was most recently assistant principal of Madison Middle School. She joined the district in 1998. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Abilene Christian University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Texas at Tyler.

Ginger Held, newly appointed dean of Holland Medical High School, is a 30year educator who most recently was lead counselor at Cooper High School. She is a graduate of McMurry University with a master’s degree from Sul Ross State University.

A new superintendent, John Kuhn, has been named for the district. He brings 27 years of experience to his new position, most recently serving in the top job at Mineral Wells ISD. He previously led Perrin-Whitt CISD and worked as a principal, assistant principal and teacher.

Lou Mora is the district’s assistant director of athletics, coming to his new position with over two decades of experience as a teacher, coach and administrator, most recently serving as assistant athletic director in Lubbock ISD.

Now filling the role of deputy superintendent is Joseph Waldron, who most recently was the district’s associate superintendent for operations. He joined Abilene ISD in 2019 as associate superintendent of human resources, then shifted to chief financial officer. He holds a doctorate in global educational leadership from Lamar University.

Academy ISD

Now serving as assistant superintendent of Academy ISD is Calvin Itz, who brings two decades of experience to his new position. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas State University.

Alamo Heights ISD (San Antonio)

Sean Reno has been appointed principal of Woodridge Elementary School after spending the past four years as an assistant principal of Alamo Heights High School. Prior to that, he worked for 12 years in San Antonio’s North East ISD as a speech teacher, assistant principal, and tennis coach. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Texas Lutheran University and his master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Alvin ISD

The following administrative assignments have been announced by the district:

• Darrin Andrus, assistant athletic director;

• Jamie Baldwin, principal, Manvel High School;

• Heather Brown, executive director of technology;

• Devin Delagarza, principal, Disney Elementary School;

• Christy Kennard, principal, Iowa Colony Junior High;

• Mark McMahon, associate principal, Manvel High School;

• Monisha Rosby, associate principal, Shadow Creek High School;

• Tony Taylor, principal, Rodeo Palms Junior High;

• Randy Teal, principal, Harby Junior High;

• Donielle Walters, principal, York Elementary School.

Boerne ISD

Marcie Beck has been appointed principal of Academy Intermediate School. The former Belton ISD elementary principal holds a bachelor’s degree from Tarleton State University and a master’s degree in education from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Boerne ISD has named a new chief human resources officer. Jill Pruin joins the district after spending eight years with San Antonio ISD, most recently as deputy chief of human capital management. She also was a leadership development specialist for ESC Region 20. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas State University, where she also completed her master’s degree in business administration.

Bonham ISD

Brenham ISD

Joy Wilson has been named superintendent of Bonham ISD. Previously Royal ISD’s director of teaching and learning, she was also an administrator in Dallas, Waco and Grand Prairie ISDs.

A new chief financial officer is in place for Brenham ISD. Darrell St. Clair comes to Bonham from Snook ISD.

Celina ISD

Bothwell Elementary School, Celina ISD’s fourth and newest elementary, will open its doors in August with Kristen Aune as principal. Most recently assistant principal of Lykins Elementary, she also worked in Frisco ISD as a middle school assistant principal and teacher.

A new human resources director is in place for Celina ISD. Melissa Kelly comes to Celina from Fort Worth ISD, where she was associate superintendent of learning and leading. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and her master’s degree in education administration from Lamar University and is pursuing her doctorate from Texas A&M University.

Julie Ricketts will serve as the inaugural assistant principal of Bothwell Elementary School when the new campus opens in August. Previously assistant principal of Anderson Elementary in Frisco ISD, she also worked in that district as a teacher, math curriculum writer and instructional coach.

Two additional administrative assignments have been made. They are:

• Starla Martin, director of student services;

• Dave Wilson, director of safe and secure schools.

College Station ISD

New executive director of facilities

Paul Buckner joins College Station ISD with 10 years of experience in energy management and six in project management, all in Bryan ISD. He was that district’s director of construction and energy management since 2020. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University.

Brittany Cain has been promoted from assistant principal of Pecan Trail Intermediate School, a position she held since 2019, to principal. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University at Shreveport and a master’s degree in education from Texas A&M University.

Blaire Grande, former principal of Pebble Creek Elementary School, is now the district’s assistant director of special services and 504 programs. Now completing her 17th year in education, she worked in Florida before arriving in College Station in 2012.

The new assistant director of transportation is Caroll Lester, who joins CSISD from Willis ISD with more than 25 years of experience in school transportation.

Heather Wilson has been approved as chief financial officer. She comes to College Station ISD from Canyon ISD with 25 years of experience in school finance, including roles in Hereford, Smithville and Giddings ISDs and at ESC Region 11. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University.

Coppell ISD

Anita de la Isla, newly appointed director of ESL and bilingual programs, previously served as the district’s ESL/ bilingual coordinator. In addition, she is an adjunct professor at Dallas Baptist University’s master’s degree program in reading and ESL.

Zane Porter has accepted the position of principal of New Tech High@Coppell. An employee of the district for nine years, he was a teacher at New Tech before becoming associate principal of Coppell High School in 2022.

The new principal of Victory Place@Coppell is Marcy Walters, a 26-year educator who most recently was the district’s coordinator for student and staff services.

ISD

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD

Former Postma Elementary School assistant principal Tracy Barstow has been promoted to campus principal. She has spent her 24-year career in the district, working as a teacher, math coach and instructional specialist in addition to her most recent job. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University and her master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Cypress Ranch High School has welcomed William Blaylock as athletic coordinator and head football coach. He comes to Cypress Ranch from Lubbock ISD’s Estacado High School, where he held the same position. He has been a head football coach at the high school level for 15 years, previously serving in Sulphur Springs, Tomball, Spring, Seguin and Fort Bend ISDs. He is a graduate of Baylor University with a master’s degree from West Texas A&M University.

The new principal of Cypress Park High School is Michael Contreras, a 30year educator and 17-year administrator who joined the district in 2014. He has been principal of Labay Middle School since 2020. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Angelo State University and a doctorate in professional leadership from the University of Houston.

Stacie Everson, former principal of Birkes Elementary School, is now principal of Salyards Middle School. She has spent her 25-year career with the district, working as a teacher, academic achievement specialist, director of instruction, assistant principal and principal.

Corsicana native

Stephanie Howell has been named superintendent of Corsicana ISD. After assignments in the district as an assistant principal and principal, she was named executive director of technology and innovation and, in 2021, assistant superintendent. She served as deputy superintendent beginning in 2023. She is a graduate of Texas A&M University at Commerce with a master’s degree from Lamar University.

Chris Hecker, formerly principal of Cypress Park High School, has been promoted to assistant superintendent of secondary school leadership. He has spent his 27-year career in the district working as a teacher, swimming and diving coach, assistant principal and high school social studies curriculum coordinator. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Houston.

Rebecca Hignight has been promoted from assistant principal of Rennell Elementary School to principal of Moore Elementary. Now completing her 27th year in education, she began her career in Spring Branch and Katy ISDs and Lamar CISD before joining Cypress-Fairbanks ISD in 2008. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and her master’s degree in education administration from Walden University.

Deveon McKinney, who was assistant campus athletic coordinator at Galena Park ISD’s North Shore High School, is now Cypress Creek High School’s athletic coordinator and head football coach. With 15 years of coaching experience at the high school level, he also worked in Waller and Corsicana ISDs. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University at Commerce and a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Texas Permian Basin.

Bane Elementary School’s new principal is Yvette Garcia, a 40-year educator who previously worked in the district as an English immersion teacher, instructional specialist, assistant principal and principal. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University and her master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. Former Cypress Creek High School assistant principal Michael George now leads Dean Middle School as principal. An educator for 15 years, he previously worked in Spring and Magnolia ISDs. He holds a bachelor’s degree from BaldwinWallace College and a master’s degree from Lamar University.

Swenke Elementary School’s principal, Courtney Nespeca, comes to her new job from Robison Elementary, where she was assistant principal since 2009. Additionally, she was an adjunct professor at Lone Star College. She is a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University with a master’s degree in administrative leadership from Prairie View A&M University.

Craig Pliskin, former assistant principal of Cypress Park High School, now leads the Brautigam Center as principal. Now completing his 17th year as an educator, he initially was a teacher in the district, transferring to Houston ISD in 2012 and returning to Cypress-Fairbanks in 2020. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Washington University and master’s degrees from Rice University and the University of Texas at Tyler.

► See Who’s News, page 20

Corsicana

In COVID’s

Texas schools respond to the one-two punch of attendance decline and behavioral issues

by Dacia Rivers

The headlines are many, and they are international. Across the globe, student attendance is down following the COVID-19 pandemic. Classrooms worldwide closed their doors in 2020, and since they’ve reopened, attendance numbers haven’t been the same.

In the U.S., the Department of Education estimates that during the 2023-24 school year, more than 30% of students were “chronically absent,” defined as missing at least 10% of school days. Prior to 2020, chronically absent students across the country accounted for half that amount, according to Attendance Works.

COVID’s wake

In the U.K., the numbers look similar, with the Department for Education reporting a persistent absentee rate over 24% in 202223, up from 10.9% in the school year before COVID-19 struck.

The numbers

In Texas, most school districts have seen similar decreases in attendance since 2020. In Hamshire-Fannett ISD, south of Beaumont, Superintendent Dwaine Augustine says pre-COVID, district attendance rates hovered around 95-96%, dropping as low as 91% immediately following the reopening of schools.

Across the state in Anthony ISD, Superintendent Oscar Troncoso reports similar numbers, with the district’s typical pre-COVID attendance rate of 95.4% dropping to 92.2% after classrooms reopened.

In some situations, a 3% drop might not seem dire, but with school funding tied to daily attendance rates, even a subtle swing can wreak havoc on a district’s finances.

“We’re not a huge district,” Augustine says. “We have just over 2,000 kids, but a swing of one percentage point in attendance could mean a million dollars for us. It’s a big deal.”

The cause(s)

While the attendance problem might be easy to measure, and pointing a finger at a global pandemic certainly makes sense, some Texas superintendents say there are many reasons for the decline in attendance, stemming from an overall shift in the attitude parents and students have toward school.

Mark Estrada, superintendent in Lockhart ISD, says he’s felt a slight change in his district, and believes some of the issues can be attributed to elevated mental health needs in students.

► See COVID, page 12

◄ Continued from page 11

“We’ve seen an increase in mental health crises and those types of things,” Estrada says. “I think that has affected the student daily attendance rates, as kids are dealing with all the different things they’re experiencing.”

Troncoso agrees, adding that the time students spent in remote school might have increased anxieties around leaving home and being in-person with other students. He has also felt a shift in the way parents feel about keeping their kids home from school, especially with more parents working from home post-COVID.

“A lot of parents, maybe they’re just being more cautious, but it seems like they keep them at home for a sore throat or a minor cold, or even a ‘mental health day,’” Troncoso says. “They were home for such a long time, it just became something that was a lot more acceptable.”

Beyond attendance

To some school administrators, COVID was just the match that lit an already simmering, latent issue regarding student behavior. Quintin Shepherd, who became superintendent in Pflugerville ISD this year after six years at the helm in Victoria ISD, says it’s important not to look at the issue solely through the lens of attendance and funding.

“Any of our kids who are struggling, whether it’s behavioral or attendance struggling, they’re suffering the same thing,” Shepherd says. “They’re all responding to trauma. It’s a flight or fight response. If they’re fighting, then it’s behavioral issues. If they’re in flight mode, then they’re not coming to school.”

Shepherd says behavioral issues were on the rise prior to the pandemic, and he believes COVID-19 shutdowns made things worse by forcing many students to stay at home in family situations that ranged from stressful to simply unhealthy.

It’s well-documented that the pandemic disproportionately affected low-income families. From increased layoffs to a higher rate of illness, families that were already struggling were hit the hardest, and Shepherd realizes those increased levels of stress and fear had significant consequences for young children.

“Parents who worked in the public sector were exposed much more frequently, so there was a higher stress response at home,” Shepherd says. “Look across the national landscape of what happened, and the folks from the lowest income strata experienced disproportionate exposure, disproportionate grief, disproportionate sickness, all of it. Those communities, those families, that’s our students who are not coming to school and who are causing behavior issues when they do come.”

Launching a response

Over the past couple of school years, many districts have seen attendance numbers rise, but they’re doing so little by little. In

Anthony ISD, average daily attendance is up to 93.54%, still nearly two percentage points lower than pre-COVID rates. Lockhart ISD saw the attendance rate increase .72% in the 2023-24 school year, and Hamshire-Fannett ISD’s attendance has increased nearly two percentage points since it hit its all-time low post-COVID.

While things are moving in the right direction, the pace is glacial, and administrators are quick to point out that districts can’t take a wait-and-see approach to getting kids back on campus. Augustine says that each district faces its own unique circumstances, creating a need to figure out what the variables are that might be preventing kids from attending school in your district, and work one by one to eliminate them.

In Hamshire-Fannett ISD, he’s been hard at work making school more attractive to students. When students arrive each morning, they’re welcomed personally by teachers, there’s music playing — the whole purpose is to foster excitement for students as they arrive each day. At the secondary schools, administrators treat passing periods the same way, saying hello to students in an attempt to perform “temperature checks.”

“All these things seem small, but over time, I think it shows that there are adults in this school who care about you and care about your well-being,” Augustine says.

Troncoso has worked to create a welcoming and engaging environment in Anthony ISD as well. The district has added numerous programs to its roster since COVID-19, including robotics, esports, speech and debate, elementary music classes, UIL academics and winter guard.

“As much as we’d like to say it’s strictly academic, we have to give kids other, engaging reasons to be in school, too,” he says.

Districts across Texas have focused on providing social-emotional learning and wraparound services to students to help with some of the stress, anxiety and other mental health issues students face. Through a grant from St. David’s Foundation, Lockhart ISD has added parent liaisons to help schools provide systems that support the whole child. The district has also increased its Communities In Schools program.

“I think those things have increased our attendance rates,” Estrada says. “I think first and foremost the wraparound services are what’s getting our kids to attend more.”

While things are moving in the right direction, the pace is glacial, and administrators are quick to point out that districts can’t take a wait-andsee approach to getting kids back on campus.

basic allotment hasn’t been increased in five years, it’s no surprise that some administrators might not feel that’s a reality that will come to pass anytime soon.

On the national level, the federal government recently released a toolkit for tackling chronic absenteeism and is proposing $8 billion in grants over five years to help increase student attendance and achievement.

For Shepherd, he worries that schools haven’t yet seen all of the long-term effects of behavioral changes in students. Inspired by the book “Upstream,” by Dan Heath, he thinks administrators need to change their focus and start investing their limited resources in solutions that target students before the need becomes dire.

“We’re all standing downstream right now, putting in response plans, but those are all downstream efforts to try and work through what we’re going through,” he says. “I think the way to get upstream would be to think differently about how we are investing resources.”

The bigger picture

If the problem or solutions seem simple on their face, it’s an illusion. Public school administrators are being asked to create something out of nothing, and not for the first time. With funding tied to attendance, schools are in an impossible situation, finding themselves with declining resources at a time when the answer is to increase offerings, programs, staff, etc.

In Anthony, Troncoso has a healthy fund balance that has allowed the district to add several programs in recent years, but he knows that many of his larger district neighbors in the El Paso area are in the opposite boat, slashing programs and staff due to budget deficits. In his mind, he’d like to see the state of Texas tie funding to enrollment instead of attendance, the way it’s done in the overwhelming majority of states.

Both Augustine and Estrada agree that the state needs to do a better job of funding schools adequately, though when the

In Victoria, Shepherd and his team made this effort by hiring social-emotional behavior specialists at each campus. These specialists worked with kids who were preidentified as struggling, and engaged their families in conversation early. Specialists were asked to focus their efforts on students in pre-K through first grade, in an effort to reach out and build relationships with families before there were attendance problems or behavioral issues.

“We have to reapportion as best we can as school districts to make these investments to get ourselves upstream, because otherwise, all we’re going to be doing is fighting these fires and watching the ball bounce, chasing these issues for the next decade,” Shepherd says.

Above all, administrators agree that creating a positive school environment, one where students want to show up each day, is the goal.

“You have to make it a safe environment, where they don’t tell their parents, ‘I don’t want to go to school,’” Troncoso says.

“Teachers, coaches, staff members, front office, everybody plays an important role in creating a positive connection, a positive school climate, and a positive school culture that is based on relationships.”

DACIA RIVERS is editorial director of Texas School Business.

PRESIDENT PROFILE

Texas

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Frisco ISD’s Wes Cunningham recently stepped up to serve as president of the Texas Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (Texas ASCD). With 31 years of public education work under his belt, Cunningham didn’t originally plan on working in schools when he attended Southern Methodist University as an undergrad. He wanted to be a doctor, then became interested in working as an athletics trainer in the area of sports medicine. Becoming a trainer required Cunningham to get his teaching certificate, which ignited his passion for education.

“I fell in love with teaching pretty early on,” he says. “That connection you can help students make to the thing they’re learning, to something that is important to them — just seeing that lightbulb moment sealed it for me.”

Cunningham started his career as a teacher and athletic trainer in Richardson ISD. After a few years in the classroom, he returned to school, attending Texas A&M University at Commerce to get his master’s and doctoral degrees, while working his way into administration, serving as assistant principal and principal in RISD. Frisco ISD hired Cunningham to open a new CTE center in the district, which he led as principal for about five years before moving into the central office to serve as a principal advisor and curriculum director.

Wes Cunningham focuses on curriculum, innovation as Texas ASCD president

“I had a couple of opportunities to possibly do something outside of education, but education was in my heart. It fulfills my need to give back.”

After a few years in Marble Falls ISD, working as assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, Cunningham returned to FISD, where he was chief academic officer before moving into his current position as associate deputy superintendent.

“I had a couple of opportunities to possibly do something outside of education, but education was in my heart,” he says. “It fulfills my need to give back.”

Curriculum and CTE have become primary areas of interest to Cunningham. In RISD, he was one of the first administrators to be trained using a laptop computer, and it made him realize how quickly everything was about to change for students. Even beyond computer use, increased technology opened up a wealth of new opportunities to students, and Cunningham appreciates the way CTE classes can offer a trial look into careers for students.

“I think it’s important in education to allow students to have these opportunities to try things they might be interested in in a safe environment,” he says. “Maybe they fail, maybe they don’t end up liking it, but we’re saving students, I think, from languishing in something they might study in college for three or four years and go, ‘Yeah, I don’t really want to do that.’”

Cunningham points to one student he knew who went through

the culinary CTE program in Frisco, but decided to switch to pre-med when she got to college.

“She’s a doctor now, but she can cook pretty well, too!”

Frisco ISD’s former assistant superintendent Debra Nelson was on the Texas ASCD board when Cunningham began working in the district’s curriculum department, and her feedback about the association led him to want to join.

“For me, it’s one of the few organizations out there that is pure to teaching and learning,” Cunningham says. “What led me to Texas ASCD, and what I find value in still to this day, was hearing from other practitioners, other teachers, other folks that work in curriculum and instruction departments across the state.”

After about 15 years of membership, Cunningham himself moved to serve on the Texas ASCD board, and recently became the association’s latest president. He appreciates the networking opportunities the group offers and says there is a true sense of community among members.

“In the central office, our main job is to

support educators, and I think there’s an art and a science to setting up a guaranteed available curriculum and having a good, solid instructional model. I think that Texas ASCD is very pure to that piece.”

Texas ASCD is an extended part of Cunningham’s family, which includes his wife and two daughters, both of whom were educated in Texas public schools. During his time as president of the association, he says he is focused on and inspired by a quote from Anthony Brandt and David Eagleman: “If we want a bright future for our children, we need to recalibrate our priorities. At the speed the world is changing, the old playbooks for living and working will inevitably be supplanted — and we need to prepare our children to author the new ones.”

Above all, Cunningham is focused on making sure Texas’ schools have what they need to be able to prepare students to be successful in the future.

“As educators, we’re not in this business to make money. We’re in this business to do good. And this is just an opportunity for me to get a chance to give back.”

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

PRESIDENT PROFILE

The Texas Council of Women School Executives

The Texas Council of Women School Executives (TCWSE) recently welcomed Jeannie Meza-Chavez, superintendent in San Elizario ISD, as its newest president. Now in her 27th year working in education, Meza-Chavez earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at El Paso, her master’s from Sul Ross State University, and her doctorate from New Mexico State University.

She got her start in education working as a middle school English and reading teacher in Socorro ISD, though she initially hoped to teach at the high school level.

“I’ll be honest, I was personally scared of middle school students,” she says. “But, I absolutely fell in love with middle school. You really have to hand it to middle school people, because they deal with so much, and they do a fantastic job.”

Meza-Chavez briefly moved to San Antonio, where she helped open the Young Women’s Leadership Academy, even giving the school its name. She was tapped to serve as the academy’s first principal, but an illness in her family led her back to the El Paso area. She became principal at Nolan Richardson Middle School in El Paso ISD, then

El Paso’s Jeannie Meza-Chavez guides TCWSE into its 40th year

“As an organization, we involve women. We uplift them. We help them believe in themselves.”

moved into district administration, working as the human resources director for secondary personnel.

From there, Meza-Chavez became superintendent of Tornillo ISD, a position she held for three years until moving into the office in San Elizario in 2017. Throughout her career in education, she says what keeps her going is the way she sees herself in the children she serves.

“I look at them and I think of all the potential they have. They just need to be helped to be in a learning environment where they can make that happen. If I can create that for a student so that they have the potential to make the best choice for their future, that’s what excites me.”

While Meza-Chavez was the first person in her family to receive a doctoral degree, she says she has been inspired in her career by her eldest sister, who recently retired after 30 years in education.

“I love to be in the classroom,” Meza-Chavez says. “I can tell you that if I wasn’t in the superintendency, I would have no problem going into the classroom because I learned so much and I have the perfect role model in my big sister.”

When Meza-Chavez became superintendent in Tornillo, she was

just one of 18 Latina superintendents in the state. Within a few years, she joined TCWSE and quickly became involved with the organization, inspired by its goal of growing and supporting women in administrative positions.

“As an organization, we involve women,” Meza-Chavez says of TCWSE. “We uplift them. We help them believe in themselves. We surround them. We create an environment where they feel safe to talk and collaborate with other women, to engage about what scares them in leadership roles.”

TCWSE members are a family, always ready to step in and offer support. Meza-Chavez says she’ll often get up early on a Saturday morning to take a Zoom meeting with one of her TCWSE “sisters” to help her prepare for an interview.

Each year in January, TCWSE members gather for an annual conference. In 2025, the group will celebrate a milestone anniversary, with a conference title of “Fierce, Fabulous and 40.”

“To be president at this time, in this moment of our 40th celebration, to me, is an honor,” Meza-Chavez says.

TCWSE was founded by Margret Montgomery to bring together women in school leadership and to encourage more women to aim for administrative positions, including the superintendency. For Meza-Chavez, leading by example is an important part of the work she does as a superintendent and as TCWSE president.

“There has to be someone willing to be the first, either in your local community, in your state, your organization, your school, or your family, because then others see that possibility for themselves,” she says. “I think of all the women, especially our founder and the fact that she was the first to say that she believed in the power of gathering women, and then she created the space. It matters when people dare to be the first to say, ‘I’m willing to take this risk because nobody’s ever done it, but if they see me do it, it can be done.’”

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

REGIONAL VIEW

Education service center programs & practices

A groundbreaking initiative to support student and educator mental health

by Karen Gage and Carrie Henry

The Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute’s Northeast Texas Mental Health Executive Learning Community, in partnership with the Texas Pioneer Foundation and the Region 8 Education Service Center, is pleased to announce the completion of a groundbreaking 12-month initiative to provide comprehensive support for the mental health needs of students and educators across Northeast Texas. The study included 23 school districts and three community colleges, representing nearly 29,000 students.

Deputy Director of Region 8 ESC Heather McGregor presented a plaque to the Meadows Institute expressing appreciation for the commitment to improve academic performance and increase knowledge of the importance of mental health in schools. Accepting the plaque were Meadows Institute leaders of the executive learning community: Linda Webb, senior vice president for education initiatives; Edna Henderson, LCSW, assistant director for school mental health; and Jen Esterline, senior vice president for child and family strategy.

▲ The Region 8 ESC has partnered with the Meadows Institute to support the mental health needs of students and educators in Northeast Texas.

“The Meadows Institute was thrilled to work with the Texas Pioneer Foundation and the Region 8 Education Service Center to help develop, implement, and sustain comprehensive school mental health systems,” said Michelle Harper, executive vice president for child and family wellness. “By working together, we believe we can improve outcomes for both students and teachers.”

McGregor also presented Fred Markham, executive director of the Texas Pioneer Foundation, with a plaque expressing gratitude for his dedicated support to the Meadows Institute to deliver a unique opportunity for executive school district leaders to learn and collaborate on best practices and leverage MultiTiered Systems of Support to build and improve their school-based mental health systems. Markham shared his beliefs, stating, “With overwhelmingly positive district feedback and a request for continued learning, we believe it is important to continue to support educators as they navigate increasing behavior challenges and the need for mental health supports.”

Focused on foundational aspects of school mental health, long-term systems building, and implementing practical strategies, this initiative addressed the unique challenges faced by Northeast Texas schools. Topics of interest for this program included identifying signs of mental illness, suicide prevention, trauma and grief support, and prioritizing educator well-being.

Building on the success of the Northeast Texas Mental Health Executive Learning Community, the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute and the Texas Pioneer Foundation announced plans for continued support of this initiative.

Established in 2014, the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute is dedicated to identifying equitable systemic solutions to mental health needs. Serving as Texas’ leading source for data-driven mental health policy, the institute collaborates with leaders at all levels to promote early intervention, address mental health crises, and support recovery. Learn more at mmhpi.org.

KAREN GAGE is a behavioral health participation program liaison for the Lakes Regional Community Center. Carrie Henry is communications specialist for the Region 8 ESC.

Established in 2014, the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute is dedicated to identifying equitable systemic solutions to mental health needs.

▲ Region 8 ESC Deputy Directory Heather presents a plaque to Fred Markham, executive director of the Texas Pioneer Foundation.

▲ Markham speaks to Region 8 ESC and Meadows Institute staff.

▲ McGregor presents a plaque to members of the Meadows Institute.

◄ Continued from page 9

Del Valle ISD

The Del Valle ISD board of trustees has named Jonathan Harris acting superintendent. He has been with the district since 2012, working as chief compliance, governmental and community relations officer and as executive director of curriculum and instruction.

Dew ISD

After 39 years in education, 10 of those leading Dew ISD, superintendent Darrell Evans retired in June. Prior to his time in Dew, he was superintendent of Bosqueville ISD.

El Paso ISD

The district’s new director for budget and external financial management is Elizabeth Perez, who previously was assistant director of external funding. She studied business and accounting at the University of Texas at El Paso and received her bachelor’s degree from Park University. Rosie Perez, director of federal and state programs, was most recently El Paso ISD’s coordinator of improvement planning and prior to that was a math and science teacher and instructional technologist. She holds a doctorate in education from Capella University.

Georgetown ISD

Sonja Howard, who was an administrator in Del Valle ISD since 2017, is now Georgetown ISD’s chief academic officer. She previously worked in Austin and Round Rock ISDs and at ESC Region 13. She earned her bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Texas.

Georgetown ISD has hired Jennifer Spears to serve as principal of Purl Elementary School. She comes to Georgetown from Del Valle ISD, where she was a principal since 2019. Prior to her time there, she worked in Fort Bend, Wharton and Aldine ISDs. She is a graduate of Sam Houston State University and holds a master’s degree from Texas A&M University.

Granbury ISD

Granbury ISD has announced the appointment of Jeremy McFerrin as head basketball coach at Granbury High School. He comes to his new job from Plano ISD, where he held the same position at Plano

West High since 2021. He also coached in Lubbock ISD and at the collegiate level at South Plains College and Texas Tech University.

Baccus Elementary School will welcome Lacey Padgett as principal when the new academic year begins in August. She comes to Granbury from Castleberry ISD, where she was executive director of teaching, learning and innovation. With almost three decades of experience, 20 of those as an administrator, she earned her doctorate from Lamar University.

Greenville ISD

Greenville ISD’s new superintendent, Joe Lopez, brings over two decades of experience to his new position, nine of those as a superintendent. He most recently led Kermit ISD.

Highland Park ISD (Dallas)

Highland Park ISD has announced the following administrative appointments:

• Jeremy Gilbert, athletic director;

• Aimee Hilton, principal, Bradfield Elementary School;

• Kevin Hunt, principal, Highland Park High School;

• Amanda Reyes, principal, McCulloch Intermediate School.

Humble ISD

Humble ISD’s newest campus, Lake Houston Middle School, has Dawn Peter as principal. She most recently was assistant principal of Riverwood Middle School and has spent nine of her 18 years in education with the district, also working as an instructional coach. She holds degrees from Western Illinois University and Olivet Nazarene University.

Ingleside ISD

The new principal of Mircovich Elementary School is Kristina Kahil, a 12-year educator who has led both primary and secondary schools and has served as a teacher at the middle and high school levels.

Katy ISD

graduate of Oklahoma City University, she received her master’s degree in educational mid-management from the University of Houston-Clear Lake.

Jenks Elementary School will have Renee Canales as principal when the 2024-25 academic year begins in August. Most recently principal of Heflin Elementary School, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and her master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.

The new principal of McRoberts Elementary School is Eric Finley, a 20-year educator who is a graduate of Midland Lutheran College with a master’s degree in educational administration from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Keller ISD

Now serving as principal of Park Glen Elementary School is Tammy DeLeon, coming to her new position from Florence Elementary, where she was assistant principal since 2021. Prior to joining Keller ISD, she was a teacher in Hurst-Euless-Bedford and Irving ISDs. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington with a master’s degree from Lamar University.

Kristen Kiss has been hired as principal of Eagle Ridge Elementary School, where she previously was assistant principal. Most recently an elementary principal in Azle ISD, she received her bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University and her master’s degree in education leadership and policy from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Elisabeth Brodt is now principal of Tompkins High School, bringing 25 years of experience to her new position. She most recently was principal of Adams Junior High. A

Parkwood Hill Intermediate School’s new principal, Pascal Licciardi, was most recently principal of Castleberry ISD’s REACH High School. He began his administrative career in New York City, where he was an instructional specialist, director of teacher development in the arts, and an assistant principal. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College, a master’s degree in music education from Hofstra University and an additional master’s degree from Adelphi University.

Jonatan Romero, now principal of North Riverside Elementary School, comes to Keller from Richardson, where he was dean of student services at Burkhair Elementary. He has also

worked in Tyler, Dallas, Van, Alief and Chapel Hill ISDs.

New Basswood Elementary School principal Nathan Roub most recently led Park Glen Elementary. He joined Keller ISD from Dallas ISD and has over 12 years of experience in Texas public schools. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and his master’s degree in educational leadership from Southern Methodist University.

Shady Grove Elementary School’s new principal is Brad Tyler, who spent the past 11 years in the top position at Parkwood Hill Intermediate School. He has been an educator for almost 20 years, all in Keller ISD. He received two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Texas at Dallas and a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of North Texas.

Kermit ISD

Rodney Schneider has agreed to serve as the district’s interim superintendent. He has been an educator for 34 years, 20 of those as a superintendent. He is a graduate of North Dakota State University with a master’s degree from Sul Ross State University and a doctorate in educational leadership from Texas Tech University.

Kerrville ISD

The Kerrville ISD board of trustees has named Julie Johnson director of elementary education. An employee of the district for eight years, she most recently was principal of Nimitz Elementary School. Prior to joining KISD, she was a teacher and administrator in Flour Bluff ISD. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University and a master’s degree in educational administration from Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi.

Killeen ISD

Matt Carroll is the district’s new co-executive director of athletics, concentrating on boys’ athletics. He began his coaching career almost three decades ago, including stints in San Antonio’s North East ISD and Waco ISD. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Hardin-Simmons University and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Phoenix. Also serving as co-director of athletics is Latisha Williams, whose area will be girls’ athletics. Most recently principal of Shoemaker High School, she has been with Killeen ISD since 1999, working as a teacher and girls’ basketball and track and field coach. She is a graduate of Southwestern University with a master’s degree in

educational administration from Tarleton State University.

La Porte ISD

The new principal of La Porte High School, Kade Griffin, has spent 11 years of his 19-year career in the district, working as a teacher, coach, instructional specialist, assistant and associate principal and, most recently, principal of Lomax Junior High. He is a graduate of Abilene Christian University with a master’s degree from Sam Houston State University and a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Houston.

Lake Travis ISD

After serving on an interim basis since January, Linda Rawlings has been named principal of Lakeway Elementary School. She previously was a principal and central office administrator in Clear Lake and Eanes ISDs and spent three years as an educational consultant. She holds two master’s degrees, from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

Leander ISD

The district has welcomed Kelly Looman as principal of Parkside Elementary School, where she began her career in 2012 as a teacher. In 2020, she became an instructional coach at Danielson Middle School, returning to Parkside in 2022 as an assistant principal. She completed her bachelor’s degree at Texas A&M University and her master’s degree in educational administration at Concordia University.

Lucretia “Shā” Rogers is now the district’s executive director of safety and security. She has been assistant chief of police with the Houston ISD police department since 2018 after beginning her law enforcement career in the Brazos County Sheriff’s Department in 2011. She holds a master’s degree in criminology from the University of Houston Clear Lake.

Kimberly Waltmon is the district’s newest area superintendent. She began her career at Giddens Elementary 20 years ago, going on to serve as an assistant principal, principal and, most recently, assistant superintendent. She completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Texas State University.

Lewisville ISD

Downing Middle School’s new principal, Glen Croll, is a 30-year educator, having spent 16 of those in Lewisville ISD. Initially a teacher in North Carolina, he also taught in Lufkin ISD. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University and his master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Felicia Curry, newly appointed principal of Vickery Elementary School, was most recently assistant principal of the district’s STEM Academy at Hedrick Middle School. She has been with Lewisville ISD since 2005, teaching at the elementary level before moving into administration in 2014. Her bachelor’s degree was awarded from the University of North Texas and her master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University.

Adam Gray, former principal of Vickery Elementary School, now leads DeLay Middle School as principal. Previously an adjunct professor at American University and a professor of English at Kansai Gaidai University in Japan, he holds a bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University and two master’s degrees, from American University and the University of Texas at Arlington.

Marcus High School will welcome its new principal, Cody Koontz, in August. He comes to Lewisville from Coppell ISD, where he was principal of the Coppell Ninth Grade Center since 2017. Now in his 20th year as an educator, he received his bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University, his master’s degree from Lamar University, and his doctorate in educational leadership from Dallas Baptist University.

David True is now principal of the Student Success Center, where he served as interim principal since 2023. He was previously assistant principal of Lewisville High School and DeLay Middle School. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of North Texas and is pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership at Stephen F. Austin State University.

Lockhart ISD

Lockhart High School has a new director of bands.

Peyton Grover comes to Lockhart from San Marcos CISD, where he held the same position. Previously, he was assistant director of bands in Bastrop ISD. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas State University.

Adam Miller has been selected as Lockhart ISD’s director of school safety and communications. He was most recently principal of Navarro Elementary School

AUGUST

August 1

TASBO Workshop: Quarterly Investment Performance Update for Board Review Online

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

Cost: Members, $85; nonmembers, $135.

August 2

Texas Association for the Gifted and Talented New Coordinator Bootcamp Virtual event

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

Cost: Members, $199; nonmembers, $299.

August 9

TASPA Workshop: Certification Fundamentals

ESC Region 1, Edinburg

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

TASPA Workshop: Understanding Special Education HOUSSE

ESC Region 1, Edinburg

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

August 22

TASBO Workshop: Bond Proceeds Investing and Arbitrage Rebate Online

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

Cost: No charge for members; nonmembers, $60.

August 27

Texas 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 3

TASBO Workshop: Constrained Supply Chains: What You Need to Know Online

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

Cost: Members, $85; nonmembers, $135.

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 2 of 12)

Virtual event

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

www.txascd.org

September 4

ED311 Training: Effective Documentation of Teachers (live module 1 of 2)

Webinar

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

Cost: $199; workbooks, $46.

September 4-5

TASA First-Time Superintendents Academy (session 2 of 4)

Marriott Austin 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; individual sessions, $295.

September 5

ED 311 Back to School Workshop ESC Region 17, Lubbock

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

Cost: $185; workbook, $25.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, North Dallas cohort (session 1 of 6)

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

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

September 9

TASPA Workshop: Documentation Basics

Lubbock ISD, Lubbock

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

September 9-10

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 Spa and Resort, Austin For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org

Cost: $6,000 for all six sessions.

September 10

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 3 of 12)

Virtual event

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

September 10-11

TCASE Ignite Academy for New and Aspiring Directors (session 6 of 9)

Location TBA, Austin

For more info, (512) 474-4492 or (888) 433-4492. www.tcase.org

Cost: Administrator and associate members, $1,070 for all nine sessions; nonmembers, $1,195 for all nine sessions.

TCASE Workshop: Finance 101

3100 Alvin Devane Blvd., Austin For more info, (512) 474-4492 or (888) 433-4492. www.tcase.org

Cost: Members, $295; nonmembers, $345.

September 11

TAMS Monthly Legislative Update Webinar

For more info, (512) 346-2177. www.midsizeschools.org

September 12

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Austin area cohort (session 1 of 6) Georgetown ISD, Georgetown For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

September 17

ED 311 Back to School Workshop Civic and Convention Center, New Braunfels

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

Cost: $185; workbook, $25.

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.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls 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.

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 4 of 12) Virtual event For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org

September 18

ED311 Training: Effective Documentation of Teachers (live module 2 of 2) Webinar

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

Cost: $199; workbooks, $46.

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, San Antonio 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.

September 19

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Corpus Christi 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.

September 23

TASPA Workshop: Documentation Basics

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

September 24

ED 311 Back to School Workshop

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

Cost: $185; workbook, $25.

TASA/N2Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, South Dallas cohort (session 1 of 6)

Duncanville ISD, Duncanville 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.

TASA School Transformation Network (session 1 of 6)

Virtual event

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

Cost: Participants from districts with fewer than 500 students, $150; 500-1,499 students, $225; 1,500 to 4,999 students, $300; 5,000 to 9,999 students, $375; 10,000 to 49,999 students, $450; 50,000+ students, $500; region ESCs, $225.

TASBO Workshop: PEIMS Fundamentals

Westin North, San Antonio

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

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

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 5 of 12)

Virtual event

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

September 24-25

TASBO Internal Audit Academy

Westin North, San Antonio

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

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

September 25

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 25-26

TASBO PEIMS Academy

Westin North, San Antonio

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

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

September 25-28

Leadership TASB Class of 2025 (session 1 of 5)

Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio

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

September 26

TASBO CSRM Workshop: Handling School Risks

TASBO offices, Austin

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

Cost: Members and nonmembers, $250.

September 27-29

txEDCON24, 2024 TASA|TASB Convention

Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio

For more info, (512) 467-0222. https://www.tasa.tasb.org/

Cost: Early registration (July 23Sept. 1): TASA or TASB member: $485; full board-superintendent team, $385; nonmembers, $585; students, $210; preconference sessions, $50; guest badges, $75. Regular registration (Sept. 2-27): TASA or TASB members, $535; full board-superintendent team, $435; nonmembers, $635; students, $260; preconference sessions, $50; guest badges, $75. Onsite registration (after Sept. 27): TASA or TASB members, $585; full board-superintendent team, $485; nonmembers, $685; students, $310; preconference sessions, $50; guest badges, $75.

September 29-30

TASSP Fall Leadership Academy

Hilton Airport Hotel, Austin

For more info, (512) 443-2100. www.tassp.org

OCTOBER

October 3

ED 311 Back to School Workshop

ESC Region 10, Richardson

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

Cost: $185; workbook, $25.

October 3-4

TCASE/TASBO Synergy 2024 Allen, Courtyard at Allen Event Center

For more info, (512) 474-4492 or (888) 433-4492. www.tcase.org

Cost: $335.

October 7-8

TASPA Fall Conference

Worthington Renaissance, Fort Worth

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

October 8

TASBO Finance and CTE Joint Workshop

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

Cost: Members and nonmembers, $235.

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 6 of 12)

Virtual event

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

October 8-9

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 8-10

TASA Level 1 CMAT Training

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

Cost: Members, $800; nonmembers, $900.

October 9-10

Texas 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

TASA Texas Public Accountability Consortium (TPAC) Meeting

Nancy Watten Tech Center, Irving For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Registration is closed for the 202425 TPAC.

October 13-15

Texas ASCD Annual Conference Convention Center, Irving For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723.

www.txascd.org

October 15

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.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls cohort (session 2 of 6)

Wichita Falls ISD, Wichita Falls For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.tasanet.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 7 of 12)

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

October 16

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Institute, 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.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Institute, San Antonio 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.

October 16-18

TACS Annual Conference AC Hotel, Waco

For more info, (512) 440-8227. www.tacsnet.org

October 17

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Austin area cohort (session 2 of 6) Georgetown ISD, Georgetown For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Corpus Christi 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.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

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

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

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

October 22

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, South Dallas cohort (session 2 of 6)

Duncanville ISD, Duncanville 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 2 of 6)

Clear Creek ISD, Webster For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Workshop:

Budget Fundamentals

Courtyard by Marriott, Pflugerville

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

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

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 8 of 12)

Virtual event

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

October 22-24

TASA Future-Ready Superintendents Leadership Network Event

San Elizario ISD, El Paso

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

Registration is closed for the 2024-25 FRSLN.

TASA Level 2 CMAT Training

TASA Headquarters, Austin

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

Cost: Members, $800; nonmembers, $900.

October 23

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.

October 23-24

TASBO Budget Academy

Courtyard by Marriott, Pflugerville

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

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

October 24

TASBO 2024 Economic Insights: Trends and Projections Online

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

Cost: No charge for members; nonmembers, $60.

October 24-25

TASB Conference for Administrative Professionals

TASB offices, Austin

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

Cost: $180.

October 28

TASBO Workshop: Payroll Fundamentals

Marriott Westchase, Houston

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

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

TASBO Workshop: Purchasing Fundamentals

Marriott Westchase, Houston

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

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

October 29

TASA School Transformation Network (session 2 of 6)

Virtual event

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

Cost: Participants from districts with fewer than 500 students, $150; 500-1,499 students, $225; 1,500 to 4,999 students, $300; 5,000 to 9,999 students, $375; 10,000 to 49,999 students, $450; 50,000+ students, $500; regional ESCs, $225.

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides

Academy (session 8 of 12)

Virtual event

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

October 29-30

TASBO Payroll Academy

Marriott Westchase, Houston

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

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

TASBO Purchasing Academy

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

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

October 30-November 1

TCA Professional Growth Conference

Sheraton Hotel, Dallas

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

NOVEMBER

November 2

TRTA Retirement Seminar

ESC Region 9, Wichita Falls

For more info, (512) 476-1622 or (800) 880-1650. www.trta.org

November 4-5

TASB HR Academy

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

November 6-7

TASA First-Time Superintendents Academy (session 3 of 4)

Marriott Austin 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; individual sessions, $295.

November 6-8

TASA CMSi Curriculum Writing Workshop

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

Cost: Members, $600; nonmembers, $650.

November 11

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 10 of 12) Virtual event

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

November 12

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.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls 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 12-13

TASBO Accounting and Finance Academy

Marriott Allen Hotel and Convention Center

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

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

November 12-14

TASA Small Schools Network Event Cumby ISD, Cumby For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

Cost: Superintendent only, $500; superintendent + 1, $1,000; superintendent +2, $1,500.

November 13

TAMS Monthly Legislative Update Webinar For more info, (512) 346-2177. www.midsizeschools.org

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, East Texas cohort (session 3 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, San Antonio 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.

November 13-14

TASBO School Operations Conference

Marriott Allen Hotel and Convention Center

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

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

Texas 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 13-16

Leadership TASB Class of 2025 (session 2 of 5)

Location TBA, El Paso

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

November 14

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Austin-area cohort (session 3 of 6)

Georgetown ISD, Georgetown

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

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

Principal Leadership Academy, Corpus Christi cohort (session 3 of 6)

Corpus Christi ISD, Corpus Christi

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

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant

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

McKinney ISD, McKinney

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

Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

November 18-19

TASB Advanced HR Seminar TASB offices, Austin

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

Who’s News

◄ Continued from page 21

and previously worked in Del Valle and Austin ISDs. He has a bachelor’s degree from Texas State University and a master’s degree in education from the University of Texas.

The district’s new director of bilingual education is Monica Saldivar, a graduate of Lockhart High School with a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and a master’s degree in education from Stephen F. Austin State University. She was previously assistant principal of Lockhart ISD’s Bluebonnet Elementary School and principal of Carver Early Education Center.

Carver Early Education Center now has Amalia Villarreal as principal. She came to Lockhart from Wharton ISD, where she was an elementary principal and served as the district’s K-12 bilingual coordinator. She is a graduate of the University of Houston at Victoria with a master’s degree from Texas A&M University.

November 19

Texas ASCD Instructional Aides Academy (session 11 of 12)

Virtual event

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

November 19-20

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.◄

Lorenzo ISD

Greg Nelson, newly appointed district superintendent, began his now 32-year career as a teacher in Midland ISD and has spent the past 28 years as an administrator. Most recently assistant superintendent of Lamesa ISD, he also worked in Fort Stockton and Ector County ISDs.

Lufkin ISD

Now serving as Lufkin ISD’s chief financial officer is Jill Gaston, former Wells ISD superintendent. A graduate of Texas A&M University with a master’s degree from Lamar University, she is working on her doctorate at Texas A&M University at Texarkana.

The Lufkin ISD board of trustees has announced the naming of James Hockenberry as superintendent. Formerly Longview ISD’s assistant superintendent for district services, he spent 14 years leading Center and Chireno ISDs.

Mason McCarty has accepted the role of director of technology. A graduate of Lufkin High, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in information technology from Stephen F. Austin State University and to manage IT systems in the private sector.

Matt Thompson is the district’s new maintenance director, bringing with him more than two decades of experience in the field.

McKinney ISD

Jennifer Akins has moved into a new leadership role as chief school improvement and federal programs officer. She is a 24-year employee of the district, previously serving as senior director of guidance and counseling.

Jeff Banner has been hired to serve as executive director of secondary school leadership, coming to McKinney from Plano ISD, where he was principal of Plano Senior High School. The 18-year

► See Who’s News, page 26

Who’s News

◄ Continued from page 25

educator received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and two master’s degrees, from Texas Tech University and Lamar University.

Now serving as assistant superintendent of human resources is Alana Chisum, who comes to McKinney from Allen ISD, where she led the human resources department for four years. She is a 16-year educator with a decade of administrative experience as a principal, assistant principal and special programs director of that department.

Laura Duree has been promoted to director of purchasing from her previous position as assistant director of that department.

Jae Gaskill is the district’s new director of career and technical education. A 32year educator with 25 years of experience in administrative leadership, she spent the past eight years as principal of McKinney North High School. Initially employed by Allen ISD, she joined McKinney ISD in 2007. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and her master’s degree from Texas A&M University at Commerce.

Former Webb Elementary principal Maria Hafner now leads Wolford Elementary School. She has almost three decades of experience as a teacher, professional development coordinator, reading specialist, instructional coach and principal.

Molly Hovan, former senior director of teaching and learning, is now the district’s executive director of elementary school leadership. She has spent the past 16 years with McKinney ISD, working as an assistant principal and principal after initially teaching in Frisco and Richardson ISDs.

Former Frazier Elementary School assistant principal Karime Terrazas has been promoted to principal of Webb Elementary. In a career spanning 24 years, she has also served in Lewisville and Irving ISDs. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Magnolia ISD

Former Magnolia ISD deputy superintendent Jason Bullock has been promoted to district superintendent. He served in his previous position since 2020 after joining the district in 2012 as deputy superintendent for administration. In addition, he worked in Temple ISD and as an adjunct professor at Central Texas College and Amberton University.

Manor ISD

Matthew Bentz has been named Manor ISD’s chief of schools. With a career spanning over three decades, he joins the district from Leander ISD, where he was chief academic officer since 2017. He holds bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from Arizona State University.

New director of counseling

Nikkida Butler was previously school counseling coordinator for Hutto ISD. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas State University and her master’s degree in school counseling from Lamar University. The new director of curriculum, instruction and student affairs, Malaki Hawkins, has joined the central office team from Lagos Elementary School, which he led since the school’s opening in 2017. She received her doctoral degree in education administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. Manor New Tech High School’s new head football coach and athletic coordinator is Derrick Lewis, who comes to Manor from Austin, where he was athletic director and head coach/offensive coordinator at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy. He previously worked in Del Valle ISD and in New Orleans and was a professional player with the New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Houston Texans.

Bluebonnet Trail Elementary School now has Meredith Roddy as principal. She comes to Manor from Hutto ISD, where she was director of curriculum and instruction since 2020. She earned her master’s degree from Tarleton State University and her doctoral degree in school improvement from Texas State University.

Midland ISD

The board of trustees of Midland ISD announces the following appointments:

• Michelle Cline, principal, Midland Freshman High School;

• Fallon McLane, executive director of school leadership;

• Misty Ring, principal, Legacy High School;

• Hollie Sherrod, principal, Franks Elementary School.

Midlothian ISD

The Midlothian ISD board of trustees has named Gaya Jefferson executive director of human resources. She has been an educator for 18 years, working in Arlington and Desoto ISDs and, most recently, in Richardson ISD, where she was executive director of professional learning. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas Woman’s University and her master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of North Texas.

Jason Medina has stepped into the role of director of safety and security. A member of the Midlothian Police Department since 2013, he achieved the rank of commander in 2023.

New Caney ISD

New Caney ISD’s former police captain, Kevin Potter, is now chief of police. He has been a police officer for 19 years, nine of those with the district.

The next principal of Infinity Early College High School is Erica Sykes, who has been with the school since 2017 as an assistant principal, dean of instruction and instructional coach.

Terri Trout has been named principal of Valley Ranch Elementary School after serving as assistant principal since 2021.

Northside ISD (San Antonio)

The following administrative assignments have been announced:

• Tiffany Burrell, academic dean, Stevens High School;

• Tequila Dupree, assistant principal, Northside Alternative High School;

• Elizabeth Flores, director of counseling;

• Laura Galindo, principal, Glenoaks Elementary School;

• Cheryl Parra, associate principal, Holmgreen Center;

• Marla Reynolds, assistant principal, Bernal Middle School;

• Miranda Snider, director of technology training and development.

Paris ISD

Justiss Elementary School will welcome Dustin Smyers as principal when the new academic year begins in August. He has been an educator for 25 years, 20 of those as an administrator.

Pflugerville ISD

Plano ISD

Quintin Shepherd, now serving as district superintendent, held the top position in Victoria ISD since 2018 and previously worked as an educator in Illinois and Iowa.

Lonnie Jordan has accepted the role of Plano ISD’s athletic director. He most recently held the same position in Highland Park ISD (Dallas) and, prior to that, worked in Richardson ISD.

Rains ISD

A new superintendent is in place for Rains ISD. Joe Nicks comes to the district from Kaufman ISD, where he served as assistant superintendent of academics. He was also a high school principal in Canton and Lamesa ISDs.

Robstown ISD

Robstown ISD has sworn in its first police chief. Filiberto Tagle retired from the Robstown Police Department three years ago after a 22-year career in law enforcement.

Ropes ISD

The district’s newly appointed superintendent, Dade Cosby, comes to his new position from Cross Plains ISD, where he also held the top job. The 14-year educator previously worked in LubbockCooper ISD and Knox City-O’Brien CISD.

Round Rock ISD

Now serving as principal of Double File Trail Elementary School is Lily Dreher, who most recently was associate principal of Voigt Elementary Arts Integration Academy. She began her career in Somerset ISD, going on to work in Dallas ISD before coming to Round Rock.

Vanessa Randels is the new principal of Chandler Oaks Elementary IB World School. She brings over 20 years of experience to her new job, 13 of those as a teacher, and was recognized as a Gilbert, Arizona elementary teacher of the year. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and her master’s degree in elementary education from Grand Canyon University.

Royse City ISD

Amy Anderson, newly appointed superintendent of Royse City ISD, joined the district as chief academic officer in 2022 and later was promoted to deputy superintendent. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University at Commerce and a doctorate from Howard Payne University.

Fort Elementary School principal Wendy Prater has been named 2024’s Distinguished Principal for Texas by the Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP). Prater, who was recognized in June during the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) summer conference, has led Fort Elementary for six years.

San Angelo ISD

The new head baseball coach of Lake View High School is Tony Cortez, an 18year educator who most recently was the school’s football offensive coordinator and assistant power-lifting coach. He previously coached in Bangs, Farmersville, Big Spring, Sweetwater and Dublin ISDs.

Arsenio Geter is now head boys’ basketball coach for Central High School. His past coaching assignments include stints in McCamey, Borger, Brownfield, Brenham, Hondo and Abilene ISDs.

San Angelo ISD and Central High School have announced the appointment of Robby Glasscock as head coach for the girls’ softball program. He has over 26 years of coaching experience, most recently serving in Fort Stockton ISD as Fort Stockton High School’s head softball and cross-country coach.

An’Jolique Woodson is now Central High School’s girls’ basketball head coach. She comes to San Angelo from Midland ISD, where she was an assistant basketball coach at Midland Senior High.

Sharyland ISD

Former Boerne ISD deputy superintendent Elaine Howard has accepted the position of superintendent of Sharyland ISD. She previously held leadership positions in Judson ISD and Hays CISD.

Socorro ISD (El Paso)

Taylor ISD

Former deputy superintendent

James Vasquez has accepted the role of interim superintendent.

Taylor ISD’s new academic officer is Megan Zembik, who began her career as a teacher in Channelview ISD, going on to Austin ISD, where she took her first leadership position. She was most recently an academic dean in Hays CISD.

Tenaha ISD

Jerrod Campbell has joined Tenaha ISD as superintendent. He is a 25year educator who spent the past four years as high school principal in Timpson ISD. He is a graduate of East Texas Baptist University with a master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Texarkana

ISD

The following administrative assignments have been announced by the district:

• Jennifer Cross, director of DAEP (Disciplinary Alternative Education Program);

• Mindy Gennings, director of college and career readiness;

• Andrew McCarter, principal, Wake Village Elementary School;

• Audrey Shumate, principal, Parks Elementary School;

• Anne Slade, supervisor of special programs.

United ISD (Laredo)

David Guzman has been promoted from assistant principal of Washington Middle School to principal. He served in his previous position for eight years and before that was principal of United High School. The 27-year educator has spent the past 21 years as an administrator in the district and before that was a teacher and coach in Laredo ISD. He is a graduate of United High and holds a master’s degree in education administration from Texas A&M University International. ► See Who’s News, page 28

Who’s News

◄ Continued from page 27

Waco ISD

Amy Atnip has been chosen as the next principal of Waco Elementary School. She has nearly a decade of education experience, working as a classroom teacher, instructional specialist and most recently as assistant principal of Highland Elementary. She received her bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and her master’s degree from the University of North Texas and is working on her doctoral degree.

When Brook Avenue Elementary School students return for the start of the 2024-25 school year they will have Jessica Weeks as principal. She previously served as the school’s assistant principal and was most recently assistant principal of Brazos Credit Recovery High School. She is a graduate of the University of Texas Permian Basin.

Whitehouse ISD

The Whitehouse ISD board of trustees has approved Casey Whittle as the district’s next superintendent. An educator for 25 years, he has been Wylie ISD’s assistant superintendent for human resources since 2020, where he spent 11 years as a teacher and administrator. He earned his master’s degree from Dallas Baptist University and his doctorate in organizational leadership from Abilene Christian University.

Willis ISD

Now serving as superintendent of Willis ISD is Kimberley James, who comes to her new position from Corpus Christi ISD, where she was deputy superintendent of curriculum and instruction. Prior to that, she was the district’s chief of staff and worked as a teacher, assistant principal and principal in Humble, Aldine and Aransas County ISDs.◄

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Tby Riney Jordan

here we were at my son’s house, having a wonderful time telling stories, laughing, and just enjoying one another’s company.

For some reason, one of the younger adults started complaining that she didn’t have any talent. So, I told her of an incident that had happened to me some 20 years earlier.

A family member was a really gifted mechanic, and while visiting him one day, my car began having some problems. He immediately lifted the hood up and began going over every detail.

I could tell that he was getting a little frustrated, and then he came out from under the hood and said, “I can’t believe that you don’t know how to work on a car! You may have book knowledge, but you don’t know how to do ordinary things!”

I remember letting that soak in for a while and then I said to him, “Russell, you’re right. I’m not mechanically gifted. I never have been and neither was my father. But, let me ask you something. Can you stand up in front of 10,000 people and speak to them for one hour and keep them entertained and interested?”

He looked at me with a puzzled expression on his face.

“Well, I can,” I responded. “You see, that is my gift. God has given everyone a gift. Yours is being an unbelievable mechanic and mine is being a teacher.”

There was a long pause of silence, and then he humbly responded, “You are right. I’m sorry.”

It has been almost a year ago since I shared that story at my son’s house. But, unbeknownst to all of us, one of the children happened to be in the kitchen that evening and was listening to every word.

A few days ago, I got a call from my son,

Todd. He said, “Dad, you are not going to believe this, but your great grandson, Reece, came home from school today all upset. It seems that one of the other kids had called him ‘stupid.’”

“He’s right,” Reece told his mom and dad. “I’m not that good at sports and sometimes I don’t catch on immediately to what the teacher is saying. He’s right! I guess I am stupid!”

Well, Reece is blessed with two of the most loving parents you can imagine. They sat down with him and began to tell him all of the amazing things that he could do.

“Reece, don’t you believe that! You are smart, and in addition you are good and kind and compassionate and a wonderful listener to others. You go out of your way to make others feel good about themselves.”

As they dried his tears and embraced him, he began to calm down. He thought for a few minutes and then looked at them and said, “So Gampy was right!”

“What are you talking about, Reece?”

“I remember a long time ago when Gampy told a story of a man named Russell telling him that he was stupid. Gampy told him that he may not be a good mechanic, but that he could talk to 10,000 people and not be nervous. He said that God gives everyone different gifts.”

“Thank you so much Mom and Dad, for being here for me,” he continued. “I wonder what my gift will be.”

I remember, as a young man, my sixth grade teacher told me that I would make a great school teacher. I never forgot that ... and it was that one comment that led me to a 30year career as an educator.

Today, perhaps more than ever, our students need encouragement. They need to know that they have unique abilities, and it’s our job to develop and nurture them.

Join Us!

TASA is the professional association for Texas school leaders. In addition to advocacy and professional learning, we provide networks and services that offer mentorship and inspiration to our members. TASA is working hard to provide the support that Texas school leaders need. We invite you to be part of TASA. Join/renew for 2024-25 starting in August!