May 24, 2024, Lancaster ISD/Lancaster,TX --Lancaster ISD is excited to share the following leadership transitions as we gear up for the 2024 – 2025 school year. These changes reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence and strategic development across the district.
Cherish Pipkins, Director of Human Capital and Strategic Initiatives
Cherish Pipkins, currently the principal at Rolling Hills Elementary, will be stepping into a new role as the Director of Human Capital and Strategic Initiatives. Mrs. Pipkins has been instrumental in fostering a positive culture and nurturing educational environment as the principal of Rolling Hills. She will now help spearhead innovative human resources and strategic projects to help retain and recruit individuals to Lancaster ISD.
Dr. James Kimbrough, Director of Child Nutrition
Dr. James Kimbrough, the principal at Pleasant Run Elementary, will transition to the role of Director of Child Nutrition. Dr. Kimbrough’s dedication to student welfare makes him the perfect fit to oversee our district’s child nutrition program, ensuring every child has access to healthy meals and being a liaison between campus principal and the Child Nutrition Department.
Dr. Antoinette Mathews, Director of Wraparound Services
Dr. Antoinette Mathews will transition from her current role as principal at JD Hall Learning Center to become the Director of Wraparound Services. Mathews is well-known for her dedication to student support, making her an ideal leader to enhance our district's wraparound services that address the broader needs of our students. Passionate about helping students navigate the challenges posed by high-stakes testing and the current uncertain societal changes, Dr. Mathews brings a boots-on-the-ground work ethic to her new position. She is committed to ensuring that students, staff, and all other Lancaster ISD stakeholders are, in her words, "better because they came" to our district.
Ta-Tanisha Stevenson, Belt Line Elementary Executive Principal
Ta-Tanisha Stevenson, currently the principal at Belt Line Elementary, will step up as the Executive Principal of Belt Line. Throughout her career, she has proven to be highly adaptable, efficient, and creative, consistently striving for excellence in every endeavor. With a solid foundation in education, a passion for literature, and exceptional communication skills, Ta-Tanisha Stevenson is poised to make a valuable contribution to any professional opportunity. Her well-organized, detail-oriented, and resourceful nature, combined with her confidence and self-motivation, positions her as an asset in any role that values strong communication, leadership, and educational expertise.
Daniel Hernandez, JD Hall Learning Center Principal
Daniel Hernandez will transition from his role as Principal of Houston Elementary to take the helm at JD Hall Learning Center. Mr. Hernandez is deeply committed to student success and active community engagement. His leadership at JD Hall is expected to foster continued growth and success, building strong connections with both students and staff. We are eager to see Mr. Hernandez apply his innovative and compassionate leadership style to further enhance the vibrant educational environment at JD Hall Learning Center.
LaJoyce Johnson, Principal of Rolling Hills Elementary
LaJoyce Johnson will advance from her position as Assistant Principal at Belt Line Elementary to become the Principal of Rolling Hills Elementary. Ms. Johnson is known for her dynamic leadership that will mesh well with the vibrant energy to the campus. In her current role, she continues to make a difference in the lives of students and educators alike. Her proficiency in discipline management, campus operations, and professional development has contributed significantly to creating a positive campus culture and climate. With a focus on training and staff development, Ms. Johnson is committed to preparing the next generation of students. Her extensive experience in instructional leadership and educational administration makes her a great addition to the Rolling Hills campus.
Dr. Daberechi Okafor, Principal of Houston Elementary
Dr. Daberechi Okafor, currently serving as an assistant principal in the Garland Independent School District, will join Lancaster ISD as the Principal of Houston Elementary. Dr. Okafor is a dedicated leader with a deep commitment to nurturing future leaders through high-quality education. She is especially passionate about addressing social justice issues that impact impoverished students and families. With her profound understanding of instructional practices driven by performance data, Dr. Okafor collaborates effectively with school leadership to align programs with the school’s vision and goals. Her commitment to professional development ensures that teaching staff are well-supported and excel in their roles. Dr. Okafor’s approach promises to enrich our educational offerings and enhance community engagement at Houston Elementary.
Kimbernique Coleman, Pleasant Run Elementary
Kimbernique Coleman will join Lancaster ISD from her current position as a campus principal in Milford, TX, to serve as the principal of Pleasant Run Elementary. Ms. Coleman is a dynamic educator with a passion for fostering positive relationships and academic excellence among students from Pre-K to 12th grade. She brings a wealth of experience in elementary education, instructional leadership, and community engagement. Her leadership is anticipated to continue the legacy of educational excellence and foster strong community ties at Pleasant Run Elementary.
Please join us in congratulating these exceptional leaders on their new roles and in supporting them as they continue to and begin to make a positive impact in Lancaster ISD.