The Lions will see a lot of new faces this coming school year as many new teachers are on the way. Over 10 teachers this past school year have left or retired.

“We do have new teachers,” principal Tiffany Spicer said. “Some individuals are new to our campus and others have been promoted to new positions.”

Some of the new sports coaches are Aubrey Lindberg for cross country, Adam Mclain for wrestling, Melissa Mudge for volleyball, Dustin Pleasant as offensive coordinator and Bill Robertson as defensive coordinator. Girls’ Basketball also has a new head coach in Kiara Marshall. New teachers are also being added for core classes and electives such as band and Spanish. The school will also get a new assistant principal.

“I am passionate about education and want to help make a difference in the lives of others,” new assistant principal Melissa King-Knowles said. “Being given the opportunity to continue doing this at such a great school is incredibly exciting. I am proud to join the Lion nation.”

King was an administrator for Round Rock ISD at Canyon Vista Middle School. Before that she was an assistant principal at Travis High School. Previous to being an administrator she taught Theatre Arts and Leadership classes.

“My intention is to support the existing vision,” King said. “I will do this by celebrating all the great things already taking place at LHS and honoring the “Leander way”. My ultimate goal is to always do what’s best for our students and ensure each and every student is given the opportunity to succeed. The very best aspect of my job is working with students. Because of y’all, I love what I do. I am looking forward to getting to meet everyone in August.”

The new counselors are Nancy Byers and Christina Vandiver, who was previously the English Language Learner teacher. Two other teachers were also promoted. Tim Smith is now the athletic coordinator and Katie Hauenstein is the IB coordinator. 

“Because of growth we did receive some additional allocations as well,” Spicer said.  “When we hire we post the position, interview and try our best to hire those individuals who are passionate about students and passionate about what they teach. They have to show that they have a heart to serve our Lions and our community.”

Many of the new staff are looking forward to their future with the school, and have plans for the upcoming new year.

“I look forward to connecting with and serving our students and our staff,” King said. “I’ve heard so many wonderful things about the LHS and what a special place this is to be. I’ve already received such a warm welcome and if that is any indication, everything I’ve heard is more than true.”