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Waco ISD Names New Executive Director of Special Education
Wendy Sledd

The Waco Independent School District has appointed Nkechinyere Washington as the new Executive Director of Special Education. Washington brings 15 years of extensive experience in special education, educational leadership, program development, and student-centered support to her new role. 

“I am passionate about creating an environment where all students thrive, and I recognize the critical role that positive leadership plays in achieving this,” Washington said. “I am eager to join Waco ISD, where I can bridge gaps, encourage open communication, and ensure every stakeholder feels valued and included.” 

For the past five years, Washington has served as a division instructional coach for the Harris County Department of Education, supporting students from 57 school districts in the third-largest county in the nation. In this role, she oversaw special education programs, ensuring proper funding, resource allocation, and accurate assessments of students’ abilities to support academic growth. Additionally, she has 12 years of experience as a classroom teacher, addressing the unique academic, social, and emotional needs of students in special education programs and implementing behavior support strategies to tackle behavioral challenges. Before finding her calling in public education, Washington served the needs of patients in critical situations as an emergency medical technician.

“Throughout her career, Mrs. Washington has consistently demonstrated the ability to inspire and empower teams, drive strategic initiatives, and cultivate a culture of collaboration and innovation,” Waco ISD Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Spicer said. “Mrs. Washington has led programs that prioritize individualized support, restorative practices, and academic excellence, particularly for at-risk and cognitively vulnerable students who require specialized services. We are confident that her vision, skills, and experience align with the demands of this critical position in Waco ISD.” 

Washington earned her bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University–Prairie View and her Master of Education degree from the University of St. Thomas–Houston. She is set to receive her doctorate from Abilene Christian University in December 2027. Washington will officially begin her role at Waco ISD on March 17, 2025. She replaces Charlotte Davis who retired effective January 31.

Martinez returns to Waco ISD to coach the Waco High School Lions
Wendy Sledd

WACO, TX ( February 13, 2025)-- Waco Independent School District is proud to welcome back Esrom Martinez as the new athletic coordinator and head football coach of the Waco High School Lions. A seasoned athletic coach with 15 years of experience, Martinez is well-known in Central Texas football circles for his leadership and commitment to student-athlete development both on and off the field. 

Waco ISD Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Spicer expressed her enthusiasm for Martinez's return to the district where his coaching career first began.

"Coach Martinez has a proven track record of building. up our students both academically and athletically, and we could not be more excited to have him back in his home district to coach our Waco High Lions," Spicer said. "As a coach of multiple sports, both boys' and girls' athletics, he was demonstrated remarkable flexibility and an ongoing desire to enhance his skills while sharing his expertise with students. I believe he will set and expect a high standard of integrity and excellence."

Martinez most recently coached football and powerlifting at Midway High School, where he played a pivotal role in leading the Panthers to the District 12-6A championship in 2023. Martinez served as an assistant head coach at Connally High School from 2019 to 2021, helping the program achieve an undefeated season and an area championship in 2019. 

"Returning to Waco High School feels like coming home. Waco ISD is where my coaching journey began, and I'm honored to lead this program as head coach now," Martinez said. "Waco High has a rich tradition of hard work, perseverance, and community pride, and I'm excited to build on that legacy. I look forward to working with our student-athletes, staff, and the entire Waco community to create a program that fosters excellence both on and off the field."

His coaching career began at University High School, where he dedicated nine years to mentoring athletes across multiple sports, including football, baseball, powerlifting, and track, while also coordinating strength and conditioning programs. Beyond athletics, Martinez leveraged his bachelor's degree incriminate justice from Midwestern State University to serve as a probation officer, later earning a promotion to captain at McLennan County Juvenile Probation, where he worked for seven years. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Coach Martinez back to Waco ISD as the new head football coach at Waco High School," WISD Athletic Director Coach Edward Love said. "His deep ties to our district, passion for developing student-athletes, and commitment to excellence make him the perfect fit for this role."

As he steps into his new position with Waco High School, Principal Joseph Alexander said Martinez brings wealth of experience, leadership, and a passion for student development. 

"Coach Martinez's return marks an exciting new chapter for the Waco High Lions. He understands the culture of our community and brings a wealth of experience that will inspire our players both on and off the field." Alexander said we look forward to seeing his leadership elevate the Lions football program and the positive impact he will continue to have on its student-athletes."

Waco ISD Announces Suzanne Hamilton as Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and Support
Wendy Sledd

WACO, TX (February 11, 2025)--Waco Independent School District announces Suzanne Hamilton has been promoted to serve as the district’s new Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and Support. A Waco ISD graduate and dedicated educator with 18 years of experience, Hamilton has served in multiple capacities within the district, including as a teacher, principal, and district-level administrator.

In her previous role as Executive Director of Student Services, Hamilton played a key role in supporting student well-being across the district. She has overseen vital areas such as safety and security, health services, and behavior management, ensuring students have the resources and support they need to thrive in a safe and nurturing learning environment.

“Suzanne Hamilton’s deep-rooted experience in Waco ISD and her passion for student success make her an outstanding leader for this position,” WISD Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Spicer said. “As a Waco native and Waco ISD graduate, her dedication to creating a safe, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment for all students is truly inspiring. We are confident that she will continue to make a positive impact in her new role.”

As Assistant Superintendent of Student Services and Support, Hamilton will continue to lead and expand initiatives that enhance student well-being, engagement, and academic success. Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing Waco ISD’s mission to support every student’s educational journey.

“I am honored to take on this new role and continue serving the students, families, and staff of Waco ISD,” Hamilton said. “Ensuring that every student feels safe, supported, and empowered is my top priority, and I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team to make a lasting difference.”

Hamilton earned her Bachelor of Social Work/Psychology degree from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor, and Master of Educational Administration from Tarleton State University. She will receive her doctoral degree from the Baylor University School of Education this summer.

University High School Volunteer Tax Prep Program Returns This Tax Season
Wendy Sledd

WACO, Texas (Jan. 27, 2025) — University High School in Waco ISD will kick off its annual free volunteer tax assistance program on Tuesday, Jan. 28, in partnership with the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. 

“When you consider all of the fees that people have saved because we do this totally for free, we have saved them a lot of money,” said site coordinator and economics teacher, Andrew Pierce. “There are people who have come many, many years in a row to have our students prepare their returns.”

University High students have prepared citizen Wesley McDaniels’ tax returns for more than a decade. 

“I’ve been coming here for about ten years in all and I have had no problems with it,” McDaniels said. “I have been happy and satisfied.”

The program has helped Waco residents secure more than $45 million in tax refunds over the years, bolstering the local economy and community businesses, Pierce said. Most refunds, when filed with direct deposit, are processed and returned within approximately one week.

“Our program not only provides essential services to the community, but it also equips students with real-world skills in customer service, accounting, and technology,” Pierce said. “This service is offered at no charge to help individuals avoid high-cost tax preparation fees or refund loans.”

High school students will work alongside Baylor University’s Accounting Department to prepare tax returns for low- to moderate-income taxpayers. To ensure accuracy and quality, all tax returns are reviewed by experienced preparers, who double-check the students’ work. 

“We practice doing returns and then there’s a test we have to take to get our certification to be able to help people with their tax returns,” UHS student Joshua Vaquero said. “It makes me feel good to help out others.”

Taxpayers are required to bring:

  • A valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID card, or Matrícula Consular)
  • Social Security card or ITIN documentation
  • All relevant tax documents

Details:

  • Start Date: Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025 - Thursday, April 10, 2025
  • Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30 p.m.– 6:30 p.m.
  • Location: University High School

 

“What this does for the students is provide a lot of customer interaction and the development of soft skills such as how you interact with an angry customer, active listening skills, how to do research…they learn skills they can use in many industries. And, they are learning tax returns which is a skill they will use their whole lives,” Pierce said.

WACO ISD SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION FILING PERIOD OPENS TODAY  DISTRICT 4 TRUSTEE NOT SEEKING RE-ELECTION
Wendy Sledd

Today is the first day for candidates to file for a school board member seat on the Waco ISD school board. Both District 4 and District 5 seats will be on the May 3 ballot. Local realtor, Jonathan Grant, currently holds the District 4 seat, and former school administrator, Jim Patton, fills the District 5 seat.

Grant announced he would not seek a third term. 

“It has been a joy to be able to serve the district I love these last three years. While I had intended to serve three terms for a total of 9 years, I’m confident it is time for me to not run for reelection and make way for our next leaders,” Grant said. 

“We have been able to accomplish a majority of the tasks that motivated me to run for this role: bringing stability to the board in very challenging times, building the schools our students deserve, reuniting all Waco ISD schools under district operations, navigating the state’s unfunded and oppressive mandates, supporting Dr. Kincannon’s work to create necessary systems, and hiring the right leader for the next part of our district’s journey.

“While the road to this decision was challenging, I am very much at peace. I am ramping up my real estate career and am certain I cannot give this role the attention it demands. The days ahead are as pivotal as the days I’ve served. I am more than confident that the next trustee from District 4 will do an extraordinary job. I will always be grateful for the trust the people of Waco ISD placed in me.”

Waco ISD School Board President Stephanie Korteweg commended Grant on his service to both students and staff.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jonathan Grant for his dedicated service as a school board member. Though his tenure was only three years, his accomplishments have been remarkable and transformative,” Korteweg said. “Under his leadership, the district witnessed the construction of new school buildings, the implementation of librarians on each campus, and an unwavering focus on literacy as a top priority. Jonathan’s steadfast support for staff and administration has resulted in meaningful contributions that will benefit not only the current students and staff but also future generations. We are deeply thankful for his service and could not have asked for a better colleague to serve alongside on the board.”

Information on filing for a Waco ISD school board position is available on the district’s website at https://www.wacoisd.org/board/election-information/may-3-2025. The deadline to file is 5 p.m. on February 14, 2025.

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