We are thrilled to announce four exceptional professionals joining the Ponder Independent School District team!
First, we would like to welcome Tara Allred back to Ponder ISD to serve as our new Chief of Student Services. With 18 years of experience in education, Tara's journey includes roles in teaching, coaching, counseling, and both campus and district administration. A Texas Tech University alumna, she also holds a master's in counseling and development from Texas Woman's University, along with principal and superintendent certifications. She formerly served as Director of Student Services at Ponder ISD and is returning to the district where she resides with her family.
Joining us as the Chief Academic Officer is Dr. Patricia Dawson, a seasoned educator with over 30 years in the field. Dr. Dawson's extensive background includes serving as Director of ESL/Bilingual Programs in Coppell ISD. Throughout her career, she has held various roles, including teacher, Instructional Specialist in Dallas ISD, Assistant Principal, and Principal in Lewisville ISD. She brings a profound dedication to student advocacy and educational excellence, holding degrees from The University of Texas at El Paso, Texas Woman's University, and a Doctorate in Education from Dallas Baptist University. Her commitment to fostering community engagement and instructional leadership will be a valuable asset to our district.
We also welcome Brandi Hunt as our ESL/Bilingual Coordinator. Bringing her expertise from her recent position at Argyle High School, Brandi has over a decade of experience in English and ESL education. She is an alumna of Tarleton State University and Dallas Baptist University, with certifications as a reading specialist and master reading teacher. Brandi's work in developing ESL programs highlights her dedication to supporting emergent bilingual students. We welcome her and her two students to our district.
Finally, we are pleased to introduce Shai Walker as our new Human Resources Coordinator. Ms. Walker comes to us with valuable experience from Frisco ISD, where she served as the Human Resources Lead Certification Specialist. Beginning her educational career in 2001 at Little Elm ISD, Shai has developed a robust skill set in managing applicant tracking and records systems, along with a deep knowledge of State Board of Educators Certification requirements and Texas Education Agency's assignment rules.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Tara Allred, Dr. Patricia Dawson, Brandi Hunt, and Shai Walker to our Ponder ISD family! Their collective experience and passion for education will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing success and growth of our district.