Longview ISD is proud to announce several new leadership appointments that will strengthen Texas Council for International Studies (TCIS) operations, support campus leadership, expand special programs, advance innovation and applied learning, and enhance Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) community engagement.
“These professionals bring a powerful combination of experience, innovation, service, and student-centered leadership to Longview ISD,” said Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard.
“Each of them will support important work already happening across our district, from strengthening operations, campus leadership, student support systems, and staff services to expanding opportunities through MSAP, instructional innovation, and our TCIS partnership. We are excited about the expertise they bring and the positive impact they will have on our students, staff, families, and community.”
Dr. Courtney Carson Gober Named Chief of Operations – Longview for TCIS
Dr. Courtney Carson Gober has been named Chief of Operations – Longview for the Texas Council for International Studies, an SB 1882 partner with Longview ISD.
Dr. Gober brings more than 25 years of educational leadership experience to the role. A co-founder of TCIS, he has been part of the organization since its founding in 2018, supporting International Baccalaureate programme implementation and campus leadership development across Texas. His transition into this full-time operational role reflects a deep commitment to the students, families, and schools of Longview.
Dr. Gober’s career spans the classroom, the principal’s office, and the superintendent’s cabinet. He began as a social studies teacher at Williams High School in Plano ISD, where he was named Teacher of the Year in 2001–2002. He advanced through assistant principal and principal roles in Plano ISD, then served as principal of Rockwall High School in Rockwall ISD from 2013 to 2018.
In 2018, Dr. Gober joined San Antonio ISD as Assistant Superintendent for International Baccalaureate Schools before returning to North Texas in 2020 as Assistant Superintendent for Student Success at Plano ISD, where he served as a senior cabinet officer overseeing a broad portfolio of student-centered programs and services.
In his new role, Dr. Gober will work closely with Longview High School and Principal Shameika Allen to build a strong, responsive IB Diploma Programme that meets students where they are and prepares them for what comes next. Across all Longview TCIS campuses, he will focus on developing the systems and structures needed for smooth, transparent school operations grounded in best practices.
“Dr. Gober brings a rare combination of IB expertise, campus leadership experience, and operational vision,” said Melanie Hamilton, TCIS Chief of Schools.
“His work will directly support our Longview campuses as we continue building strong systems, developing leaders, and expanding opportunities for students through high-quality IB programming.”
“Courtney has been part of TCIS from the beginning, and his commitment to students, schools, and strong leadership has helped shape who we are as an organization,” said Margaret Davis, TCIS CEO. “Having him serve Longview in this full-time role strengthens our partnership and reflects our shared commitment to excellence for students and families.”
Dr. Gober holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Administration and Curriculum and Instruction from the University of North Texas, a Master of Arts in Educational Studies from the University of Michigan, and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Morehouse College, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa.
In June 2026, Bloomsbury Academic published his book, Principal Presence, Principal Mystique: Five Systems to Prioritize Your Time and Implement Best Practices, a practical guide to campus leadership drawn from his years working alongside principals across multiple districts.
LaKesha Williams Named Interim Principal of Bramlette STEAM Academy
LaKesha Williams has been named interim principal of Bramlette STEAM Academy, bringing 20 years of dedicated service to students across East Texas and a distinguished career rooted in education, student success, and strong campus leadership.
Her journey has taken her from the classroom into a variety of instructional and administrative leadership roles, including lead teacher, math instructional specialist, assistant principal, and most recently, academic dean at Forest Park Middle School.
During her time at Forest Park, Mrs. Williams played an integral role in transforming campus culture, elevating expectations, and championing the academic and personal growth of students. Her commitment to empowering students and supporting educators has made a lasting impact on the school community.
“Mrs. Williams is a steady, student-centered leader who understands the importance of strong culture, clear expectations, and meaningful support for teachers,” said Dr. Brian Ziemer, CEO and Chief Learner of East Texas Advanced Academies (ETAA).
“Her experience as an instructional leader and campus administrator makes her well prepared to step into this interim role and provide the stability, focus, and care students and staff need. We have great confidence in her ability to lead during this transition.”
Mrs. Williams earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wiley College and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Lamar University.
“Mrs. Williams has earned trust through her work with students, staff, and families,” said Melanie Pondant, ETAA Chief of Schools. “She knows how to support instruction, strengthen relationships, and keep student success at the center of campus decisions. As interim principal, she will provide thoughtful leadership while continuing to build on the progress already happening on campus.”
As she begins this new chapter, Mrs. Williams looks forward to partnering with students, staff, families, and the community to foster a culture of excellence, belonging, and opportunity where every child is empowered to learn, grow, and thrive.
Dr. Latricia Borner Named Executive Director of Special Programs
Dr. Latricia Borner has been named Executive Director of Special Programs for Longview ISD. She brings more than 25 years of experience in public education and a demonstrated commitment to improving student outcomes through inclusive practices, strong instructional leadership, and systems-focused program development.
Throughout her career, Dr. Borner has served in a variety of leadership roles supporting students, educators, and school systems. Her experience includes serving as a behavior specialist, supervisor of behavior support services, senior manager of Section 504, and assistant principal. In these roles, she has led initiatives focused on special education, behavior support, Section 504 compliance, instructional improvement, and leadership development while supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs.
Dr. Borner began her educational career in one of the nation’s largest school districts and has also served in charter and out-of-state public school systems. Her broad experience has contributed to the development and enhancement of behavior support programs, inclusive practices, and systems designed to improve student achievement and educator effectiveness.
Most recently, Dr. Borner served as an assistant principal in Houston ISD, where she led special education programming and the science department while supporting campus-wide instructional initiatives and student success.
Dr. Borner earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication, a Master of Education in Administration, and a Doctor of Education in Executive Educational Leadership from Houston Christian University. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, where she remains committed to service, leadership, and educational advancement within the community.
“Dr. Borner brings the kind of experience and systems-level thinking that will help us continue strengthening support for students, families, and campuses,” said Dr. Kettisha Jones, Deputy Superintendent of School Innovation and Student Performance.
“Her background in special education, behavior support, Section 504, and instructional leadership aligns directly with our commitment to serving all students well. We are excited to welcome her to Longview ISD.”
Dr. Borner is passionate about educational leadership, lifelong learning, and creating opportunities for all students to thrive. She looks forward to partnering with students, families, staff, and the Longview community to support the district’s mission and advance the goals of Elevate 2030.
Dr. Ticha Chikuni Named Director of Employee Relations
Dr. Ticha Chikuni has been named Director of Employee Relations for Longview ISD, bringing nearly two decades of experience in recruitment, student support, higher education leadership, admissions, and staff development.
Dr. Chikuni joins Longview ISD from Fayette County Public Schools in Lexington, Kentucky, where he served as a Recruitment and Retention Specialist. In that role, he collaborated across departments to recruit classified staff for critical positions, coordinated high-volume recruitment events, supported interview committees, improved recruitment processes, and helped strengthen employee retention efforts. His work also included supporting paraprofessionals, building relationships with community partners, and helping departments such as payroll, benefits, technology, and ERP ensure new and current staff were effectively supported.
Before serving in Fayette County Public Schools, Dr. Chikuni held several leadership roles in higher education, including Executive Director of Admissions at Georgetown College, Senior Diversity Recruitment Specialist at Eastern Kentucky University, Senior Admissions Counselor at Kentucky State University, Dean of Students at St. Catharine College, and Area Coordinator for Student Activities at Georgetown College. His experience includes recruitment, retention, student engagement, staff development, student conduct, international admissions, and community-building work across multiple institutions.
As Director of Employee Relations, Dr. Chikuni will help lead efforts to recruit, support, and retain talented employees across Longview ISD. His background in relationship-driven recruitment, employee support, and student-centered service aligns with the district’s focus on building strong teams that support excellent outcomes for students.
“Dr. Chikuni brings a people-first approach to human resources, along with meaningful experience in recruitment, retention, and employee support,” said Shalona McCray, Chief Human Resources Officer.
“He understands that strong schools begin with strong teams, and his ability to build relationships, support staff, and create thoughtful systems will be a tremendous asset to Longview ISD.”
Dr. Chikuni earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership: Policy Studies, a Master of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems from Eastern Kentucky University. He also holds an Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology from Lees College of Hazard Community College.
Dr. Chikuni said he is humbled to join the Longview ISD family and looks forward to serving in a district “where we are not afraid to do brave things and inspire students to reach a limitless future.”
He and his wife are moving to Texas with their two children and are excited to begin this new chapter with the Longview ISD community.
Carl Mohn Named MSAP Director of AI Strategy and Applied Learning
Carl Mohn has been named MSAP Director of AI Strategy and Applied Learning at Longview ISD, where he will lead the development and implementation of artificial intelligence initiatives that support innovative, learner-centered instruction across the district.
His work is closely connected to the district’s Magnet Schools Assistance Program initiatives, helping expand personalized learning opportunities through emerging technologies, instructional innovation, and applied learning design.
With a Master of Education in Digital Learning and Leading, Mohn is experienced in AI integration, blended learning, project-based learning, and the strategic use of instructional technology to support educator effectiveness and student success.
Mohn develops practical systems, resources, and professional learning experiences that help educators integrate AI in meaningful, responsible, and sustainable ways. He believes meaningful innovation begins by equipping teachers with practical tools, clear support, and the confidence to adapt in an evolving educational landscape.
“Carl understands that meaningful innovation is not about chasing the newest tool. It is about helping teachers use the right tools in the right ways to support student learning,” said Ben Wood, Chief Technology Officer and MSAP Director.
“His experience with AI, digital learning, and applied instructional design will be a valuable asset as Longview ISD continues preparing students and staff for the future.”
Mohn’s guiding philosophy is simple: change the world one teacher at a time. He lives in Kilgore with Amanda, his wife of 26 years.
Lakeshia Houston Named MSAP Community Relations Specialist
Lakeshia Houston serves as the Community Relations Specialist for the Magnet Schools Assistance Program within Longview ISD. With more than 10 years of experience working with students, families, and school communities, Houston brings a strong background in relationship building, student support, and community engagement.
In her role, Houston helps students, families, staff, and community members better understand MSAP and the unique opportunities available to students. She also works to build meaningful community partnerships and highlight the innovative programs, experiences, and success stories happening across MSAP campuses.
“Lakeshia’s role is essential because strong programs need strong communication and strong relationships,” said Ben Wood, Chief Technology Officer and MSAP Director.
“She will help families, staff, and community partners better understand the opportunities being created through MSAP and how those opportunities support students.”
Houston is passionate about connecting people, building relationships, and telling the stories that showcase the great work happening in schools and the opportunities being created for students.
“Lakeshia brings a people-first approach to this work, and that matters,” said Jeremy Stout, MSAP Digital Media Coordinator. “Her ability to connect with families and community members will help us tell stronger stories, build stronger partnerships, and make sure more people understand the impact of MSAP across Longview ISD.”
These appointments reflect Longview ISD’s continued commitment to placing experienced, forward-thinking leaders in roles that support students, staff, families, and the broader community. Through special programs, instructional innovation, community engagement, and strong operational partnerships, the district remains focused on preparing students for success now and in the future.