District News

WACO, TX — With 18 years of expertise in career and technical education curriculum and instructional leadership, Jeffrey Cunningham has been selected as the new Dean of the Greater Waco Advanced Manufacturing Academy (GWAMA). Cunningham most recently served as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department Head, Engineering Teacher, and UIL Campus Coordinator at University High School in Waco. 

Prior to his selection for this administrative role, Cunningham treated his classrooms and advanced manufacturing labs as "technical ecosystems". He brings extensive experience in instructional leadership, having overseen departmental professional growth, managed multi-platform technical assets, and mentored new CTE faculty at University High School since 2009. Additionally, he serves as an Alternative Teacher Certification Content Instructor for STEM at McLennan Community College. 

In selecting the new leader for GWAMA, the district recognized Cunningham's deep expertise in advanced manufacturing frameworks and his ability to facilitate robust community partnerships. 

"Mr. Cunningham is an exceptional CTE leader who brings nearly two decades of technical expertise and a deep commitment to student success," said Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent of Waco ISD. "His track record of driving instructional excellence, bridging industry demands with technical education, and empowering faculty makes him the ideal fit to lead GWAMA as we prepare our students to become the next generation of industry leaders." 

Cunningham noted that he is thrilled to take on this leadership position at GWAMA, emphasizing his belief that "aligning high academic expectations with technical infrastructure transforms students into industry leaders". As Dean, he plans to utilize his administrative expertise to "empower faculty, elevate instructional strategies," and translate "real-world manufacturing, engineering, and workforce insights into actionable enhancements for program design". 

To share his vision and gather input, Cunningham will host a meet-and-greet event for staff, families and industry partners on July 30 at GWAMA, located at 2401 J J Flewellen Road in Waco, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 

Cunningham earned his Master of Education with a focus on Systematic Instruction and Curriculum Design from the University of Houston. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from BaylorUniversity. Cunningham began his new leadership role at GWAMA this summer. 

 

WACO, TX — With over two decades of public education experience and a distinguished background in military leadership, Elvis Williams has been selected as the new Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Waco ISD. Williams joins the district from Edgewood ISD, where he has served as a senior operational leader since 2018, most recently as the Assistant Superintendent of Operations.

Prior to his tenure at Edgewood ISD of San Antonio, Williams served as a District Hearing Officer and High School Principal for Dallas ISD. His extensive background as a cabinet-level administrator includes roles as the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations for Del Valle ISD and Deputy Superintendent for Huntsville ISD. Williams began his 23-year career in public education as a classroom teacher before advancing into campus and district leadership.

In selecting the new operational leader, the district conducted a rigorous selection process involving multiple rounds of comprehensive interviews. Williams stood out as an exemplary leader whose strategic operational goals align perfectly with the size, scope, and structural needs of Waco ISD.

"Mr. Williams is a proven, exemplary leader who brings a comprehensive background spanning fiscal management, district safety, long-range facilities planning, and bond construction," said Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent of Waco ISD. "Beyond his 23 years in public education, his leadership approach is profoundly shaped by a distinguished 16-year military career. This foundation of military service instilled in him a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence while developing invaluable skills in strategic planning, team building, and crisis management that make him the ideal fit to lead our operations division."

During his time at Edgewood ISD, Williams managed large-scale district operations, driving organizational effectiveness and streamlining processes. Notably, he navigated complex safety challenges and recently assumed oversight of the district’s police department. His experience encompasses rigorous budget management, adhering to strict government accounting principles, and collaborating closely with architects and general contractors to ensure capital improvement bond projects are completed on time and within budget.

Beyond his district responsibilities, Williams is an active advocate for statewide education and civic growth. He serves on the Board of Trustees for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) and is a dedicated member of several civic organizations, including the Lions Club. Williams leverages his past service as a United States Marine and Army veteran to remain calm under pressure, think critically, and inspire collaborative teams.

"I am deeply committed to fostering academic excellence, community engagement, and student success," Williams said. "I am particularly inspired by Waco ISD's mission to cultivate the unique potential of all students through innovative education. I am eager to bring this vision to life by working collaboratively with division leaders, campus administrative teams, parents, students, and the community to ensure that all children in Waco ISD receive a world-class education."

Williams holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University and a Bachelor of Science from Mississippi Valley State University. He is currently completing his Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership at the University of Texas at Austin.

Waco ISD is currently finalizing Williams' official start date in coordination with his remaining responsibilities at Edgewood ISD.

 

Waco, TX - Waco Independent School District is proud to announce that Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Spicer has been elected to a three-year term on the Lone Star Investment Pool (LSIP) Board of Trustees. The Waco ISD Board of Trustees officially authorized her appointment with a formal board resolution, recognizing the immense value her leadership and stewardship will bring to both the investment pool and the local district.

The Lone Star Investment Pool is a premier public funds investment pool authorized under the Texas Interlocal Cooperation Act and the Public Funds Investment Act. The Board of Trustees provides vital governance, fiduciary oversight, and strategic direction for the pool, which serves numerous school districts and public entities across Texas. Dr. Spicer will serve in a volunteer, uncompensated capacity, actively representing the interests of pool members.

"I am incredibly honored to join the Lone Star Investment Pool Board of Trustees," said Dr. Spicer. "As public educators, our responsibility extends beyond the classroom to the diligent stewardship of public resources. Serving on this board allows Waco ISD to have a direct voice in the governance of these vital funds, ensuring fiscal responsibility that ultimately supports our mission of providing excellence, equity, and access for all students."

Waco ISD Board President Angelo Ochoa expressed strong support for Dr. Spicer’s appointment, highlighting how the district stands to benefit.

"Dr. Spicer's ability to blend visionary leadership with practical, results-driven governance makes her an exceptional fit for this role," Ochoa said. "Having our superintendent represent us on the LSIP Board ensures that Waco ISD remains at the forefront of public fund management, bringing valuable fiscal insights back to our community."

A Proven Track Record of Educational Leadership

Dr. Spicer joined Waco ISD as superintendent in October 2024, quickly establishing a culture of collaboration, transparency, and momentum under the district's unified brand, "Wisdom Works Wonders."

With more than two decades of experience in Texas public education, Dr. Spicer has a versatile background with leadership roles in districts of all sizes, ranging from 1,500 to 40,000 students. Her extensive career includes serving as the superintendent of Buna ISD, as well as holding critical administrative roles - such as Assistant Superintendent, Chief of Staff, Principal, and Director - in Round Rock, Leander, Del Valle, and Beeville ISDs. Notably, she made history as the first African-American principal in Leander ISD, where her campus consistently achieved high state academic distinctions.

In addition to her new role with LSIP, Dr. Spicer serves on key regional boards, including Prosper Waco and the Baylor Center for School Leadership, reflecting her deep commitment to community-driven success.

 

Waco, Tex. (June 26, 2026) -  Heart of America (HOA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming learning spaces for underserved students since 1997, partnered with AbbVie Foundation to complete a STEM learning space transformation at CCMS as part of the organization’s annual Week of Possibilities global volunteer initiative. 

Approximately 70 AbbVie volunteers worked alongside Heart of America and school staff to reimagine the school’s Technology Applications classroom, creating a vibrant, technology-rich environment designed to support coding, digital literacy, problem-solving, and hands-on STEM learning. 

The transformation will impact approximately 810 students and provide sixth graders with expanded opportunities to explore technology, innovation, and future career pathways through engaging, real-world learning experiences. 

“Students deserve learning environments that spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and help them build confidence in their abilities,” said Jill Hardy Heath, President and CEO of Heart of America. “By creating a vibrant, technology-rich STEM environment, we're helping students discover new possibilities for learning, growth, and their future. We are grateful to AbbVie Foundation for partnering with us to bring this opportunity to Waco students.”

The transformation focused on the school's Technology Applications classroom, where sixth-grade students develop coding, keyboarding, and digital literacy skills.  Enhancements included: 

• New paint and inspirational wall graphics
• Flexible student furniture and storage solutions
• New technology resources, including a 3D printer and accessories 
• Virtual reality headsets and immersive learning tools 
• Coding resources and STEM learning materials
• Technology carts and classroom equipment designed to support hands-on learning exploration

The project transformed a previously dark and underutilized classroom into a bright, engaging STEM environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and innovation.  

As part of the project, students and educators also received approximately 450 educational resource packs to support learning and engagement beyond the classroom. 

AbbVie Foundation's Week of Possibilities engages tens of thousands of employees globally in service projects that support local communities and advance long-term outcomes related to education and health equity.

"The AbbVie Foundation is committed to driving transformative change in communities so that everyone can live their healthiest life and working alongside partners like Heart of America helps us bring that mission to life," said Keya Milla, president of the AbbVie Foundation. "Projects like these help contribute to students’ and the community’s overall health, and we're grateful to Heart of America for connecting us."

This project builds on Heart of America's ongoing partnership with Waco Independent School District. Since 2023, Heart of America has completed three projects across the district, transforming six learning spaces and impacting more than 1,500 students. Together with volunteers and community partners, the organization has also distributed more than 1,000 books, helping expand access to resources and create environments where students can learn, grow, and thrive.

"Our technology applications classroom has been completely reimagined, going from a monochromatic, underutilized space into a bright, technology-rich STEM environment," said Lena Ortiz, principal of CCMS. "Seeing volunteers from AbbVie and Heart of America working alongside our school staff was incredibly inspiring. With access to advanced tools like virtual reality headsets, a 3D printer, and flexible furniture, our students now have a vibrant space that sparks curiosity, fosters collaboration, and opens up new career pathways in coding and digital literacy. We are grateful for this partnership and the 450 educational resource packs that will keep our students engaged well beyond the classroom."

This project reflects a growing model of public-private partnership, where nonprofits, corporate partners, and schools collaborate to address resource gaps and strengthen learning environments. With aging infrastructure and limited funding for school facilities nationwide, initiatives like this help ensure students have access to the tools and spaces they need to succeed.

 

Waco, TX — In a strategic move to fortify campus performance, expand equity initiatives, and drive student achievement, a cohort of four highly accomplished educational administrators has been selected for key leadership roles heading into the upcoming academic school year.

Bringing a collective wealth of over six decades of classroom, instructional, and executive experience, these proven leaders reflect a deep commitment to systemic turnaround excellence, data-driven professional learning communities (PLCs), and holistic student development.

The newly appointed administrators demonstrate rigorous expertise across elementary and secondary levels, with exceptional track records in boosting state accountability ratings, reducing disciplinary infractions, and mentoring the next generation of educators. Their backgrounds represent an elite tier of leadership, combining advanced academic degrees with specialized experience in crisis intervention and community engagement.

Dr. Monica Green

• Campus: Tennyson Middle School
• Profile: Dr. Monica Green is a visionary educational leader with an exceptional portfolio in transformational administration and equity-centered frameworks. She most recently served as the Director of Equity for Omaha Public Schools, where she spearheaded district-wide empathy interview initiatives involving a diverse sample of 8,000 employees, trained the Superintendent and District Leadership Team as interviewers, aligned budgets directly to measurable instructional outcomes, and led the New Teacher Training program for over 400 educators. Dr. Green possesses robust principalship experience across elementary and middle school levels, notably guiding McMillan Middle School and Benson West Elementary as Principal. At Benson West Elementary, Dr. Green, with extensive experience in Title 1 districts, successfully engineered a plan resulting in a 20 percent increase in student writing scores and maintained a teacher retention rate exceeding 95 percent. Dr. Green holds a Ph.D. in Educational Administration from Texas A&M University and is completing her Superintendent’s Certification from the University of Nebraska.

Ms. Thia Johnson-Allen

• Campus: Brook Avenue Elementary
• Profile: Ms. Thia Johnson-Allen brings over 25 years of distinguished, mission-driven leadership within public education, marked by a deep expertise in secondary and elementary administration, cohort graduation tracking, and Multi-Tiered System of Supports for Behavior (MTSS-B). Currently serving as a Secondary Assistant Principal at Waco High School, her strategic refinement of MTSS-B systems directly contributed to an exceptional 41 percent year-to-date reduction in campus discipline referrals. The system she developed cannot be given credit alone. Her heart-centered leadership and the ability to inspire excellence in staff and students guide her decision-making. Ms. Johnson-Allen’s extensive tenure includes serving as an elementary campus principal for eight years, directing instructional and behavioral systems as an Assistant Principal at the Wiley Opportunity Center, and coaching educators as an Instructional Specialist. Recognized with a Waco ISD Lead from the Heart Award and named a Waco ISD Campus Teacher of the Year, Ms. Johnson-Allen holds a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Tarleton State University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics from Baylor University.

Mr. Anthony Baney

• Campus: Bell’s Hill Elementary
• Profile: Mr. Anthony Baney is a results-driven administrator celebrated for his ability to lead turnaround efforts on underperforming campuses and navigate volatile periods of leadership transition. He has successfully driven critical campus transformations, notably supporting an elementary school campus improvement that elevated its state accountability rating from an "F" to a "C" rating through meticulous scheduling, system optimization, and the institutionalization of Professional Learning Communities. His versatile administrative background spans both elementary and secondary leadership roles across central Texas, following a foundational career as an award-winning classroom teacher, grade level leader, and recipient of the Educator's Choice Award. Supplementing his educational leadership, Mr. Baney is a certified Texas Firefighter and First Responder who served with the Killeen Fire Department, reflecting a unique capacity for managing high-pressure situations with a solutions-oriented approach. He earned his Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M University.

Mr. Bradley Knox

• Campus: West Avenue Elementary
• Profile: Mr. Bradley Knox stands out as an impactful, highly collaborative instructional leader dedicated to cultivating positive school cultures and robust community partnerships. As the Interim Principal, Assistant Principal and 6th Grade Coordinator at Tennyson Middle School, Mr. Knox managed diverse facets of school operations, including attendance, behavior, safety, operations, athletics, and transportation coordination. His leadership trajectory within the district includes serving as the Administrator in Residence for G.L. Wiley Opportunity Center and an acclaimed tenure as a Reset Behavior Teacher at West Avenue Elementary, where he was honored as the Outstanding Teacher of the Year. Mr. Knox holds a Master of Education in Administration from Lamar University and dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Physical Education Teacher Education and Exercise Science from Tennessee State University.

"We are thrilled to deploy these extraordinary leaders to their respective campuses," said Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Waco ISD Superintendent. "Each administrator brings a specialized set of skills that perfectly aligns with our strategic priorities - whether that is accelerating literacy and mathematics growth, strengthening school culture, or ensuring strict instructional compliance. We are confident that their leadership will yield immediate benefits for our students, staff, and communities."