LISD announces new assignments

In preparation for the 2010-2011 school year, Laredo Independent School District Superintendent Marcus Nelson announced the following promotions and appointments during the LISD Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday evening.

Lonnie D. Cook was named LISD's chief of police. Cook comes from the City of Laguna Vista Police Department near South Padre Island. Cook's assignment is effective July 8.

Miguel Munoa was appointed chief technology officer. Munoa was the regional sales manager for AT&T and brings over 13 years of experience in the telecommunications industry.

Myrtala Ramirez was promoted to director of Elementary Education. She has been principal at Tarver Elementary School, a recognized campus by the Texas Education Agency, and Santo Niño Elementary School, which is expected to receive an exemplary rating this year.

Miguel Castillo will be the new principal at Bruni Elementary School. Castillo was previously the vice principal at Memorial Middle School. Castillo, who has been in education for 16 years, was previously a teacher at Ryan Elementary School and a vice principal at Alma Pierce Elementary School.

Eduardo "Wayo" Martinez will be the new principal at Farias Elementary School. Martinez comes from Cigarroa High School where he was assistant principal. Martinez has been a vice principal at Kawas, Milton, and Sanchez Ochoa Elementary Schools. Martinez is expecting to finish his doctoral degree in leadership studies from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio.

"These individuals possess the experience, knowledge, and leadership skills necessary to effectively serve the staff and children of Laredo ISD," Nelson noted. "They have fostered the respect and admiration of their peers and have a strong desire to have a positive impact on students."

The new assignments for Ramirez, Castillo, and Martinez become effective immediately.

Nelson added that LISD would be advertising for the following positions in July: Principals for Ligarde Elementary School and Santo Nino Elementary School, and the executive director for Plant Facilities and Support Services, a post currently held by Israel Carrera, who is resigning to accept a position as superintendent of schools in Jal, New Mexico. Nelson is expected to make his recommendation for these positions at the July regular meeting of the LISD Board of Trustees.