District News

WACO, TX — With over two decades of public education experience and a distinguished background in military leadership, Elvis Williams has been selected as the new Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Waco ISD. Williams joins the district from Edgewood ISD, where he has served as a senior operational leader since 2018, most recently as the Assistant Superintendent of Operations.

Prior to his tenure at Edgewood ISD of San Antonio, Williams served as a District Hearing Officer and High School Principal for Dallas ISD. His extensive background as a cabinet-level administrator includes roles as the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations for Del Valle ISD and Deputy Superintendent for Huntsville ISD. Williams began his 23-year career in public education as a classroom teacher before advancing into campus and district leadership.

In selecting the new operational leader, the district conducted a rigorous selection process involving multiple rounds of comprehensive interviews. Williams stood out as an exemplary leader whose strategic operational goals align perfectly with the size, scope, and structural needs of Waco ISD.

"Mr. Williams is a proven, exemplary leader who brings a comprehensive background spanning fiscal management, district safety, long-range facilities planning, and bond construction," said Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent of Waco ISD. "Beyond his 23 years in public education, his leadership approach is profoundly shaped by a distinguished 16-year military career. This foundation of military service instilled in him a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence while developing invaluable skills in strategic planning, team building, and crisis management that make him the ideal fit to lead our operations division."

During his time at Edgewood ISD, Williams managed large-scale district operations, driving organizational effectiveness and streamlining processes. Notably, he navigated complex safety challenges and recently assumed oversight of the district’s police department. His experience encompasses rigorous budget management, adhering to strict government accounting principles, and collaborating closely with architects and general contractors to ensure capital improvement bond projects are completed on time and within budget.

Beyond his district responsibilities, Williams is an active advocate for statewide education and civic growth. He serves on the Board of Trustees for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) and is a dedicated member of several civic organizations, including the Lions Club. Williams leverages his past service as a United States Marine and Army veteran to remain calm under pressure, think critically, and inspire collaborative teams.

"I am deeply committed to fostering academic excellence, community engagement, and student success," Williams said. "I am particularly inspired by Waco ISD's mission to cultivate the unique potential of all students through innovative education. I am eager to bring this vision to life by working collaboratively with division leaders, campus administrative teams, parents, students, and the community to ensure that all children in Waco ISD receive a world-class education."

Williams holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University and a Bachelor of Science from Mississippi Valley State University. He is currently completing his Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership at the University of Texas at Austin.

Waco ISD is currently finalizing Williams' official start date in coordination with his remaining responsibilities at Edgewood ISD.