The Digital Learning Team recently launched the 2024–25 Empowered Learning Institute (ELI), a year-long professional learning experience. Now in its second year, participants will explore the process of designing learner-centered experiences while integrating technology, content, and pedagogy. 

After applying to be a part of this year’s cohort, applicants were notified with a surprise visit during a districtwide acceptance tour Oct. 2.

We’re excited to welcome the following teachers and staff as they continue on a journey to empower students to own their learning.

2024-25 Cohort

Camacho ES

  • Alyssa Thomas, 4th Grade Teacher
  • Talia Cook, 5th Grade Teacher

Cox ES

  • Crystal Lucero, Instructional Coach
  • Mary Vallee, Classroom Teacher

Cypress ES

  • Seana Bannon, 3rd Grade Teacher

Faubion ES

  • Mariann Casillas, 3rd Grade Teacher
  • Stephanie Reese, Instructional Coach

Larkspur ES

  • Danor Bump-Padden, ESL Teacher

North ES

  • Erin Bartley, Librarian
  • Heather Bennett, Classroom Teacher
  • Shay Wacker, Classroom Teacher

Parkside ES

  • Sarah Armstrong, 4th Grade Teacher
  • Becca Babyak, 5th Grade Teacher
  • Christie Wilcox, Kindergarten Teacher
  • Brian Weiser, 4th Grade Teacher

Rutledge ES

  • Vincent Palada, 4th Grade Teacher

Tarvin ES

  • Jewelie Cook, ESL Teacher
  • Tiffany Keske, Kindergarten Teacher
  • Aubrey Rushhaupt, 2nd Grade Teacher

Cedar Park MS

  • Samantha Black, 8th Grade Teacher, Social Studies
  • Kendall Hiott, Instructional Coach

Danielson MS

  • Janelle Nichols, Instructional Coach

Four Points MS

  • Teresa LaBianco, Librarian
  • Bailey Upchurch, 7th Grade Teacher, Social Studies

Henry MS

  • Sydney English, 6th Grade Teacher, ELA
  • Jo Gregory, 6th Grade Teacher, Math
  • Lucy VerMilyea, Teacher, Social Studies

Leander MS

  • Kirsten Bazaldua, 8th Grade Teacher, Math
  • Brittany Gonzalez, Instructional Coach
  • Shaylor Tillman, 6th Grade Teacher, World Cultures

Running Brushy MS

  • Michele Reed, Instructional Coach
  • Astreia Griggs, Librarian

Wiley MS

  • Rosalba Brock, Teacher, Spanish
  • Matthew MacDougall, Teacher, Gateway
  • Ashley Young, 8th Grade Teacher, Social Studies

Cedar Park HS

  • Lauren Livingston, Teacher, AP Psychology and Economics

Glenn HS

  • Ryan Hart, Teacher, U.S. History and AP Government
  • Stephanie Krauskopf, Instructional Coach

Rouse HS

  • Shirley Dean, Asst. Principal
  • Melanie Troller, Teacher, ESL