December 18, 2023 LANCASTER, Texas --Lancaster ISD is pleased to announce the appointment of Lancaster STEM Early College High School (LSECHS) Principal Anthony Thornhill to the district leadership team as the new Director of Technology. Thornhill has been the principal of LSECHS since 2018, has a proven track record of educational leadership, and has been instrumental in shaping a positive and dynamic learning environment.
As the early college principal, Thornhill has demonstrated a keen understanding of the intersection between education and technology. He has played a pivotal role in shaping a progressive learning environment while overseeing the implementation of technology-driven initiatives. Furthermore, his experience in evaluating and training staff aligns seamlessly with the strategic integration of technology into educational practices.
To ensure a seamless transition until a permanent early college principal is named, district academic coordinator Ashley Tippit, will assume the role of Early College Coordinator. Tippit currently serves as a district academic coordinator overseeing secondary reading language arts, social studies, and advanced academics. She started her teaching career as a social studies teacher in Lancaster ISD and was one of the founding teachers of Lancaster’s STEM Early College High School where she taught English I and facilitated college courses.
“Acknowledging the wealth of talent within our district enables us to tap into our internal resources for key roles,” Deputy Superintendent Dr. Cassandra Barker shared. “Mr. Thornhill has proven to be a valuable asset to our early college program, and we are confident that his knowledge and expertise in addressing campus needs will seamlessly translate into his new role at the intersection of technology support for our entire district. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact of his leadership in the technology department and his collaboration with Mrs. Tippit as we prepare for his transition.”
Tippit's interim appointment will maintain the early college continuity established by Thornhill needed for continued success and innovation within the program. Additionally,Thornhill and Tippit will work closely together to ensure there is no disruption to the early college learning community and all student’s needs are met.
Mr. Thornhill expressed that he is excited for the next chapter of his career.
"Serving as the Lancaster Early College Principal has been truly rewarding. Witnessing numerous students earning their associates' degrees, celebrating top-ten graduates, and even having a valedictorian and National Merit scholarship winners has been a source of pride. The unwavering support from our parents has made this experience the most rewarding work I've done so far in my career," Thornhill acknowledged. "With that said, I'm ready to kick off the transition plan with Mrs. Tippit, and I am eager to bring my expertise into play by merging my building and education experience with our district's technology needs."
Thornhill and Tippit will officially transition to their new roles at the start of the second semester in January.