Leander ISD welcomes a Central Texas educational leader to the district. The Board of Trustees approved the hiring of Erika Cruz as Plain Elementary’s next principal during Thursday night’s meeting.
“Erika is a passionate leader who builds positive relationships among students, staff, and community,” Superintendent Bruce Gearing, Ed.D. said. “Her dedication to growth for each and every student and deep commitment to partnerships with staff and parents will only enhance the great things already happening at Plain Elementary.”
With experience as an elementary school assistant principal, Cruz served in both Round Rock and Pflugerville ISDs. She taught elementary school-aged students, including English Language Learners and children with special needs, prior to her time as a campus administrator. A champion for restorative practices, Cruz helped lead the movement to a more relationship-based approach to addressing student behavior as assistant principal at Spicewood Elementary.
“It is evident that Plain Elementary values academic, social, and emotional growth of all students and has a strong tradition of empowering learners,” Cruz said. “I am very excited and looking forward to partnering with this wonderful staff and community!”
A native Austinite, Cruz graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a B.S. in Applied Learning and Development. She received a master’s degree in Elementary Education from Texas State University in San Marcos.
Cruz is replacing Evelyn Crisp who announced her retirement earlier in the school year. Her last day is December 18.
