District News

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."

 

As University High School (UHS) prepares to celebrate the graduating Class of 2026, two outstanding student leaders are being recognized for their incredible academic achievements, community service, and dedication. Valedictorian Kimberly Moreno and Salutatorian Melissa Naomi Cortez have consistently demonstrated what it means to work hard, overcome challenges, and strive for excellence throughout their high school journeys.

Meet Kimberly Moreno: Honoring Family Through Academic Excellence 

Kimberly Moreno has earned the highest academic distinction of being named the University High School Valedictorian for the Class of 2026. Reflecting on her time in high school, Kimberly shares that she is most proud of her ability to balance a multitude of responsibilities. Balancing work, being heavily involved in school activities and successfully maintaining a 4.0 GPA in both her McLennan Community College (MCC) and UHS classes was no easy feat, but it pushed her to become a more hardworking and determined individual.

Throughout high school, Kimberly immersed herself in campus life and leadership. She served as the President of the National Honor Society, competed as a varsity and competition cheerleader, and served as a Dual Credit Ambassador. Additionally, she participated in the UHS Blood Drive, the Dual Credit/Accelerate Program, Upward Bound MCC, and Upward Bound Math and Science.

For Kimberly, earning the title of valedictorian carries deep personal and cultural significance. As a first-generation student and the daughter of immigrant parents, she views this milestone as a shared triumph.

"Being valedictorian means much more to me than just having the highest rank in my class," Kimberly said. "It represents every struggle, sacrifice, and every late night. It reminds me that hard work truly does pay off. As a first-generation student and daughter of immigrant parents, this honor also shows me that no matter where you come from, anything is possible. This achievement feels like a win not only for me, but for my parents and all immigrant families whose sacrifices often go unnoticed."

Kimberly credits her parents as her biggest inspiration, having watched them work tirelessly and sacrifice to provide her with better opportunities. She also extends her gratitude to her teachers, Mr. Lopez and Ms. Kaliher, who constantly encouraged her to do her best and supported her whenever she needed help.

This fall, Kimberly will head to the University of Texas at Austin, where she plans to major in kinesiology to lay the groundwork for a future career in occupational therapy.

Offering words of wisdom to the students coming up behind her, Kimberly advises, "Be smart with the people you have around you. You don't have to please everyone, you just have to please yourself and be happy with what you do."

Meet Melissa Naomi Cortez: Advocacy, Leadership, and Giving Others a Voice 

Melissa Naomi Cortez claims the honor of being named the University High School Salutatorian for the Class of 2026. Reaching this position represents the realization of a long-term goal for Melissa - one that she talked about for years, almost as a joke at first, but deeply wanted.

"Reaching this goal showed me that hard work, consistency, and believing in yourself really do pay off," Melissa remarked.

Inside the classroom and out, Melissa was invested and active during her four years at University High School. Academically, she was a dedicated member of a college readiness program called AVID for two years, consistently ranked in the top 10 percent of her class, and earned recognition as an academic achiever. She was an active member of the National Honor Society and the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE), where she used her skills to help create children's books in Spanish for younger students.

Her extracurricular activities extended to athletics and civic engagement. During her freshman and sophomore years, she ran cross country and track, which taught her discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. She also participated in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) as a freshman, served as a soccer manager, and developed leadership skills beyond the classroom as a member of the community-based Next Gen Committee.

Melissa notes that her family was her ultimate source of inspiration, keeping her motivated and pushing her to do her best even when she felt like giving up. She is also deeply grateful to her AVID teacher, as well as her other teachers and counselors, who guided her through college questions, assisted with scholarships, and reminded her to stay focused on her long-term aspirations.

To Melissa, the honor of being salutatorian represents years of hard work, personal sacrifice, and structural support from her community. 

"It's not just about grades. It's proof to myself that I'm capable of achieving the goals I set for my future," she said.

Melissa will soon transition to Texas A&M University, where she plans to major in International Affairs. Following her undergraduate degree, she plans to attend law school to become an immigration lawyer. Her ultimate career goal is to help families and individuals navigate the complex immigration process, advocate for those who may not always have a voice, and build secure futures within her community.

Encouraging younger students to aim high, Melissa advises: "Don't be afraid to push yourself, even if your goals seem impossible at first. Stay consistent, ask for help when you need it, and take every opportunity that comes your way. High school goes by fast, so make memories, but also remember that the work you put in now can open so many doors later."

Bright Futures Ahead

Both Kimberly and Melissa embody the spirit of resilience, academic excellence, and leadership at University High School. As they prepare to take their next steps at major Texas universities, their accomplishments stand as an inspiration to the entire school and Waco community. Congratulations to University High School's 2026 top scholars!

 

WACO, TX — With 25 years of dedicated experience in education, Bamma Moore has been selected as the new principal of G.W. Carver Middle School (GWCMS). In Moore’s most recent role, she served as an Assistant Principal at GWCMS.

Moore also served as an Associate Principal at GWCMS and spent a decade serving Waco High School as an Assistant Principal for both the freshman and senior classes, as well as the Special Education Coordinator. Her deep institutional knowledge, administrative background, and extensive history of supporting student growth have prepared her to take the helm at GWCMS.

"Bamma Moore is an exceptional leader who combines a deep commitment to improving student outcomes with a proven ability to strengthen teacher effectiveness," said Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent of Waco ISD. "Her extensive experience in educator development and cultivating a positive campus culture makes her the ideal fit to lead G.W. Carver Middle School as a devoted advocate for our students, staff, and families."

In selecting the new leader for GWCMS, the district prioritized feedback gathered directly from the campus community. Through an intentional engagement survey, families and staff shared the essential strengths and leadership qualities they envisioned for their next principal. Guided by these insights, the district focused on finding an administrator who communicates with transparency, demonstrates a deep-rooted commitment to Waco ISD, and leads with a seamless balance of consistency, flexibility, and adaptability. 

"My 25-year journey in education has taught me that academic performance and school culture are inseparable," Moore said. "I am dedicated to creating a school environment where excellence is the standard, but joy is the atmosphere. By building a campus that students and staff love coming to every day, I will ensure that G.W. Carver is a place where parents are eager to send their children and where every student has the opportunity to succeed."

Moore is currently completing her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Improvement and Performance in Education at Capella University, where her research focuses on scaling high-leverage instructional practices to drive system-wide academic equity. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership and Administration from Lamar University, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Legal Studies from Paul Quinn College, and an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Criminal Justice from McLennan Community College. Additionally, she holds valid professional certifications as a Principal, in Special Education, and in Career and Technical Education .

Moore will officially begin her new role as principal of G.W. Carver Middle School this summer.

 

Waco High School has officially announced its top two graduating students for the Class of 2026. This year’s honors celebrate two remarkable young women whose journeys reflect academic brilliance, robust civic leadership, and an enduring commitment to community growth. Valedictorian Eisley Lawson and Salutatorian Daniella Mercado have set a profound example of excellence, paving their respective paths to some of the nation's most prestigious higher education institutions.

Valedictorian Eisley Lawson: A Passion for Justice and Learning

Securing the highest academic rank in the graduating class, Eisley Lawson has been named the 2026 Waco High School Valedictorian. Eisley achieved an extraordinary final grade point average (GPA) of 113.6595, a testament to her rigorous academic dedication. Eisley shares that she possesses a deep love for learning and has thoroughly enjoyed her school years. For her, the valedictorian distinction serves as tangible evidence of the relentless hard work she invested throughout her high school tenure.

Following graduation, Eisley will move to Middletown, Connecticut, to attend Wesleyan University. Guided by her interest in policy and public service, she plans to double major in Government and Spanish. Eisley’s long-term career goal is to protect and shape civil liberties, through practicing constitutional law and serving in elected office.

Eisley's presence at Waco High School extended far beyond her exceptional report cards. She was active in many extracurricular programs, including theatre, the International Thespian Society, Teen Leadership Waco, the National Honor Society, and with her local congregation, Hope Fellowship. Yet, when looking back at her high school career, she notes that her proudest accomplishment was founding a local chapter of Students Demand Action. Through this gun safety advocacy organization, she spearheaded local awareness and actively lobbied lawmakers at the Texas State Capitol.
 

Eisley attributes much of her resilience and drive to her mom, Kelly Lawson, whom she names as her single biggest inspiration during high school. When asked what advice she would pass down to underclassmen navigating their school years, Eisley emphasized the human element of education:

"Find your people. Invest in relationships with your peers, teachers, and administrators. You will need the support of others throughout your schooling and the rest of your life."
 

Salutatorian Daniella Mercado: Leaving a Lasting Community Legacy

Earning the distinction of 2026 Waco High School Salutatorian is Daniella Mercado. Her exceptional classroom performance is highlighted by an outstanding final GPA of 112.7609, underscoring years of hard work and academic consistency. For Daniella, this milestone carries a deep, emotional significance that reaches well beyond a high class ranking. As a first-generation Hispanic student in Waco, becoming salutatorian represents years of collective sacrifice, resilience, and perseverance from both herself and her family. 

"This honor belongs to my mom, my sister, and everyone who supported me through difficult moments," Daniella expressed, describing her success as living proof that a student's background does not dictate or limit their future.

Daniella’s stellar academic and extracurricular profile has opened the doors to the Ivy League; she is set to attend Harvard University this fall. She intends to study economics and government on a pre-law track, with long-term aspirations of forging a career in law and public policy. Her ultimate objective is to utilize her education to champion underrepresented communities and enact tangible, meaningful systemic change through dedicated leadership and public service.

During her four years at Waco High School, Daniella maintained a packed schedule of leadership and community involvement. She served as the Senior Class President, a Marching Band Drum Major, and the Founder and President of the Recycling Club. Her extensive resume also includes serving as President of Upward Bound, Treasurer for the Interact Club, a varsity cheerleader, a legal intern at a local law firm, and an active participant in Student Council, competitive debate, Spanish Club, National Honor Society (NHS), soccer, and powerlifting. Committed to lifting others as she climbed, she also engaged with LEAD, the Waco Hanan Foundation, and volunteered as an English and Spanish tutor.
 

Daniella is proudest of the enduring local footprint she leaves behind. By founding the Recycling Club, which she grew from scratch to an organization of over 40 active students, and guiding her peers as class president, she poured her entire heart into making an impact at Waco High School.

Watching her sister navigate the challenges of being the oldest sibling and a first-generation student taught Daniella how to push through hardship with poise and grit. Drawing from that well of inspirational resilience, Daniella delivers a poignant, powerful message to the students of Waco High School and the broader Waco community regarding institutional perceptions:
 

"Too often, schools like ours are underestimated because we are a Title I school in a lower-income area, but people do not see the resilience, talent, and determination that exists inside our classrooms every day. Do not let stereotypes or people's opinions about where you come from limit what you believe you can achieve. Be proud of where you come from, because Waco High is filled with students capable of accomplishing far more than the world expects from them."

A Bright Future for the Waco Community

The parallel journeys of Eisley Lawson and Daniella Mercado illuminate the power of public education, community support, and personal resolve. As one departs for Wesleyan University and the other for Harvard University, they carry with them the pride of a community that they have spent years building, organizing, and improving. As the Waco High motto says, Lion Pride Runs Deep and each of these exceptional top scholars exemplify that. 

 

WACO, Texas – Due to a high probability of rain in the weekend forecast, Waco ISD announced today that it is proactively relocating its upcoming graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2026. To ensure that graduates and their families can enjoy this milestone moment comfortably and without weather disruptions, both ceremonies will now take place indoors at the Baylor University Ferrell Center.

 

The venue change impacts both University High School and Waco High School, which were originally scheduled to utilize outdoor facilities. Because the district's initial outdoor contingency plans face inclement weather risks, district leadership opted to move the celebrations inside to keep the focus exactly where it belongs: on the students.

 

"Graduation is a milestone moment, and the Class of 2026 has earned a day that is memorable for all the right reasons," Waco ISD Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Spicer said. "Our families deserve to fully enjoy every second of this celebration, focusing entirely on their graduates rather than constantly checking the weather radar. This beautiful indoor venue guarantees a bright, dry, and joyful atmosphere for everyone."
 

The updated ceremony schedule for Saturday, May 23, 2026, is as follows:

• Location: Baylor University Ferrell Center (1900 S. University Parks, Waco, TX 76706)
• University High School Ceremony: 2:30 PM 
• Waco High School Ceremony: 7:30 PM 

 

Waco ISD advises that attendees can arrive up to an hour before the ceremony. The district is currently finalizing remaining logistics with the Ferrell Center staff. Families are encouraged to monitor district communication channels for more details regarding parking, entry procedures, and general guest information.
 

"We are immensely proud of our graduates and deeply grateful for the families, teachers, and community members who have supported them every step of the way," Dr. Spicer added. "We cannot wait to celebrate this incredible milestone together, completely rain-free."