Atlanta ISD welcomes new assistant principals

The Atlanta Independent School District is proud to announce the appointment of two new assistant principals for the upcoming academic year. Lauren Anderson has joined Atlanta Middle School, while Brad Baca is taking on his new role at Atlanta High School.

Anderson and Baca, each with unique experiences and a shared commitment to supporting teachers and students, are set to bring a fresh perspective to their roles. Their combined efforts will enhance the educational environment and foster a supportive community within their respective schools.

“My number one goal as an assistant principal is always to serve,” Anderson said. “I want to serve the teachers so that they can best serve the kids. I think if you take care of teachers, then they’re in the best position to take care of the kids.”

Baca, transitioning from his role as a classroom teacher and coach, is excited about the new opportunities his position at Atlanta High School presents and the flexibility it gives his family.

“It’s going to provide me the opportunity to still make an impact with teachers and students, but at the same time, it’s going to allow me to watch my kids be involved in their sports,” Baca said.

Baca’s focus is on being a resource for teachers and students, emphasizing the importance of instructional coaching, discipline support, and being a steady presence in the school.

“My role is really to support teachers in their effort to instruct the students,” Baca said. “If I can make an impact and be a supportive person for teachers, I think I will still make an impact with students and athletes in a similar but different way.”

With 18 years of experience in education, including a degree in kinesiology from Sam Houston State University and a master’s in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin University, Baca is well-prepared to take on this new challenge.

Anderson’s commitment to public education is deeply personal. She was the first in her family to attend college and strongly believes in education’s transformative power.

“Even though my parents didn’t come from an educated background, going to college and getting an education was just the way it was going to be,” Anderson said. “There was never another option.”

Anderson, a former assistant principal at Jefferson ISD, holds a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in education administration from Texas A&M University - Texarkana.

Both Anderson and Baca are passionate about making meaningful connections within the Atlanta community and supporting the district’s high standards and expectations.

“Atlanta has such a good reputation,” Anderson said. “There are high standards and high expectations from the top down, and that really appeals to me.”

Similarly, Baca, who is beginning his fourth year in the district, is eager to build on his existing relationships with students.

“I have a pretty good relationship with almost every kid there,” Baca said. “And so, I’ll just try to further that relationship and try to be that steady rock for them.”

As they step into their new roles, Anderson and Baca are both excited about the opportunities ahead and are committed to fostering a positive and supportive environment for teachers and students.

“I’m just really excited to be here,” Anderson said. “I’m excited about the opportunity. I’m ready to get started and meet the kids. It’s going to be good.”