ETR Staff Report
Longview, TX – Longview ISD is proud to announce several key leadership appointments that will strengthen campus performance, enhance student safety, and support continued districtwide
excellence.
“At Longview ISD, we are intentional about placing the right leaders in the right roles to best serve our students and staff,” said Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard. “Each of these individuals brings unique strengths, proven experience, and a shared commitment to excellence. These leadership transitions build on the strong foundation already in place and position our district to continue moving forward with focus, purpose, and pride.”
Dr. Derrick Estes Named Principal of Bramlette STEAM Academy
Dr. Derrick D. Estes has been named the new principal of Bramlette STEAM Academy. A proven
turnaround leader, Dr. Estes began his career with Houston ISD in 2008 as a third-grade self-contained
teacher and later served as principal of James H. Law Elementary for six years. During his tenure, he
transformed an underperforming campus into a high-achieving school, earning a TEA A rating with five
distinctions.
Since joining Longview ISD in December 2024, Dr. Estes has already made a significant impact, elevating Clarence W. Bailey Elementary School from a TEA F rating to a C within a single semester. Dr. Estes holds a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston–Downtown, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Doctor of Education in Ethical Leadership from the University of St. Thomas.
“Texas School of International Studies (TCIS) is committed to ensuring strong, stable leadership across all of our campuses, and we are confident in Dr. Derrick Estes’ ability to lead with excellence in this capacity,” said charter partner, TCIS Chief of Schools Melanie Hamilton. “Dr. Estes has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, student-centered leadership, and building a positive campus culture. His ability to lead with clarity, urgency, and care positions both campuses for continued success. We are grateful for his willingness to serve in this dual role and for his unwavering dedication to our students, staff, and community.”
District leaders say Dr. Estes’ track record and leadership style made him a clear choice for the role.
“After conducting an extensive staff survey and focus groups to fully understand staff needs and concerns for a new principal, the ETAA Board and leadership team strongly believe Dr. Derrick Estes is responsive at every level to the Bramlette educational community’s desire for experienced, seasoned, and highly talented campus leadership,” said Dr. Brian Ziemer, CEO of East Texas Advanced Academies.
“We believe Dr. Estes has exactly the right personality and skill set to provide strong, effective, and personable leadership that will draw the very best out of Bramlette students and their teachers. Dr. Estes’ successful track record in elementary school leadership gives us great confidence in Bramlette’s future success under his oversight.”
Francine Sparks Named Principal of Forest Park Middle School
Francine Sparks has been named the new principal of Forest Park Middle School, bringing more than 23 years of experience in education and a strong track record of instructional leadership. Sparks has served as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and academic dean since beginning her leadership journey in 2013. She is known for her focus on building strong relationships, creating positive campus cultures, and driving student achievement.
A Longview ISD alumna, Sparks began her career in the district as a reading teacher at Longview High School, where she taught English II, III, and IV, as well as Debate. She later served in leadership roles at Marshall ISD, including assistant principal at Marshall High School and academic dean at Marshall Junior High, where she was part of a team that helped the campus earn a B rating.
Sparks returned to Longview ISD in 2023 as assistant principal and academic dean at Foster Middle School. During her time there, she helped lead efforts to strengthen campus culture, raise expectations, and improve student outcomes, contributing to the school’s growth from an 88 to a 92.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Sul Ross State University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from LeTourneau University.
“Francine Sparks is an outstanding leader who understands what it takes to build a thriving middle school environment,” said Dr. Brian Ziemer, CEO of East Texas Advanced Academies. “Her focus on relationships, academic growth, and student opportunity makes her the right choice to lead Forest Park into its next chapter.”
Outside of school, Sparks is a proud mother of three sons and recently celebrated 21 years of marriage with her husband. She enjoys reading, traveling with her family, and brings a deep passion for education and community to her work each day.
Former Forest Park Principal Ryan Carroll Named Director of Safety and Security
Ryan Carroll has been named Director of Safety and Security for Longview ISD. Currently in his 17th year in education, Carroll serves as principal and IB Head of School at Forest Park Middle School. A proud Longview ISD graduate and former Lobo student-athlete, Carroll brings a unique combination of local roots and diverse leadership experience. Throughout his career, he has served in multiple instructional and administrative roles, including teaching ESL, Spanish, and math, and leading campuses as principal at Foster Middle School and Daingerfield High School.
Before entering education, Carroll played professional basketball in more than 15 countries after graduating from Texas Christian University. He holds a master’s degree in educational administration from Lamar University and completed his Superintendent Certification through Texas A&M University Commerce.
In his new role, Carroll will focus on strengthening districtwide safety systems through a strategic, data driven approach. His deep connection to the community and extensive leadership experience position him to enhance safety protocols and ensure a safe and secure environment, where students can concentrate on learning, and teachers can concentrate on instruction.
“We are excited to welcome Mr. Carroll into this critical leadership role,” said Chief of Safety and Security Benjamin Kemper. “His experience as a campus leader and his strong ties to Longview ISD make him uniquely qualified to lead our safety and security efforts. He understands our schools, our students, and our community, and that perspective will be invaluable as we continue to prioritize safety across the district.”
Mitch Isaac Named Director of Technology
Mitch Isaac has been named Director of Technology for Longview ISD, bringing more than 30 years of IT experience, including 25 years in education. He joins the district from Chapel Hill ISD and has served in a variety of technology roles throughout his career, building a reputation for problem-solving, innovation, and strong customer service.
A lifelong tinkerer, Mitch enjoys woodworking, shooting, and reading in his free time. He and his wife, Kim, live in Tyler with their son, Taylor. The family is actively involved in Scouting, volunteering their time to support training and events. Taylor is currently working toward his Eagle Scout project and plays tenors in the Tyler Legacy Drumline. Mitch’s daughter, Morgan, lives in Houston with her family, including his first grandchild, Wesley.
“We are excited to welcome Mitch Isaac to our team,” said Chief of Technology Ben Wood. “He brings a wealth of knowledge, deep expertise, and a strong commitment to customer service that aligns with our A.C.E. (Achievement, Customer Service, Excellence) ideals.”
These leadership changes reflect Longview ISD’s commitment to its students, staff, and families by placing experienced, student-centered leaders where they can make the greatest impact. The district looks forward to continued collaboration with the community as it works to support every student’s success.
For more information, contact media@lisd.or
