Mr. Mork holds an M.Ed. in Administration from Lamar University and a B.S. in Sociology/Criminology from the University of Oklahoma. With nearly two decades of experience at the middle school level, including eight years as assistant principal, Mr. Mork brings deep expertise in campus leadership, instructional support, and building cultures where students and teachers thrive. His entire career has been dedicated to this stage of learning, and it shows.
Mr. Mork is known for his genuine love of students, his restorative approach to discipline, and his hands-on investment in teacher growth and wellbeing. Families can expect a principal who will know their child by name, and teachers can expect a leader who will show up for them every single day.
Justin is a firm believer in data-informed decision-making, collaborative problem-solving, and robust instructional frameworks to ensure every student achieves academic success and personal growth. Known for his visible, hands-on leadership style, he places a premium on supporting teachers' professional goals and well-being, ensuring they have the structure and care needed to thrive.
Furthermore, his expertise in restorative practices and de-escalation ensures a safe, accountable, and consistent learning environment where discipline serves as a tool to teach self-behavior mastery while keeping vital relationships intact.
Please join us in congratulating and welcoming Justin Mork into his new role as Principal of Ouida Baley Middle School!
In his recent role as Director of Finance, Dr. Hill managed a $49.5 million budget and oversaw comprehensive accounting, payroll, and financial reporting systems. His professional background is marked by a deep commitment to financial stewardship, including the successful financial implementation of a $58 million bond initiative and construction oversight of a $1.3 million facility. Throughout his career, Dr. Hill has served in diverse leadership capacities ranging from Principal to Director to Superintendency, roles that have refined his expertise in long-range planning, compliance, and data-informed decision-making.
Dr. Hill holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and is a dedicated advocate for operational excellence. In his new position, he will provide leadership for accounts payable, payroll, maintenance, and operations, continuing his focus on transparency, accountability, and student-centered success.
Dr. Holomshek is a seasoned leader with more than twenty years of experience spanning the classroom, campus administration, curriculum and assessment consulting, and instructional design. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Historical Studies from the University of Texas at Dallas, a Master of Education from Texas A&M Commerce, and a Doctor of Education in Transformational Leadership from Concordia University. That last credential is not just a title , it reflects the lens through which she approaches every role she has held: leading in ways that create real, lasting change for students, staff, and communities.
Amber began her career as a Social Studies teacher, where she spent eleven years in the classroom developing a deep understanding of secondary students and what it takes to prepare them for life beyond high school. That classroom foundation led her to Region 10 ESC, where she served as an Educational Consultant in Assessment and Curriculum, advising districts on best practices and creating and delivering workshops that reached more than 70 school districts across North Texas. From there, she moved into an Instructional Design Facilitator role where she led professional development for secondary social studies teachers across the district.
In 2017, Amber stepped into campus administration as an Assistant Principal at Sachse High School, a large, comprehensive high school with more than 3,000 students and 200 staff members. She served there for nearly eight years, directing campus operations, leading discipline and scheduling systems, conducting staff evaluations, and developing programs focused on workforce readiness and student engagement. Most recently, she has served as Associate Principal at Rockwall Heath High School, further deepening her experience in student support systems, school culture, and campus-wide operations.
Dr. Holomshek is data-driven, relationship-centered, and relentlessly focused on student success. She understands the complexity of leading a large high school, and she brings the experience, the credentials, and the character to do it exceptionally well. We are proud to welcome her to Royse City ISD, and we are confident that she is exactly the right leader for Royse City High School at this moment.
Kerstin is an experienced, accomplished, and passionate educator who brings nearly two decades of service in public education to this role. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of North Texas, and her Master of Education in Educational Administration from Lamar University. She holds a Principal Certification EC-12, is a certified T-TESS and T-PESS appraiser, and carries supplemental certifications in ESL and Special Education, reflecting the full range of learners she is prepared to serve.
Kerstin began her career as a classroom teacher where she spent eight years building the instructional foundation that would shape everything that followed. She then moved into intervention and instructional support roles before becoming an Assistant Principal. What followed was a remarkable run as a campus principal, first at Club Hill Elementary, and then as the Founding Principal of Club Hill STEM Elementary. Building a STEM campus from the ground up requires vision, tenacity, and an extraordinary ability to bring people together around a shared mission, and Kerstin did exactly that.
Throughout her leadership career, Kerstin has been known for providing targeted instructional feedback that strengthens lesson rigor and student outcomes, championing data-driven decision making. She has led campus needs assessments, managed complex initiative implementation, and consistently built environments where teachers grow and students thrive. She has also participated in the Holdsworth Campus Leadership program and has been supported by Teaching Trust coaching, two of the most rigorous leadership development pathways available to Texas school leaders.
What also stands out about Kerstin is her connection to this community. She has served as a former Public Relations Officer for Royse City Ag Supporters. She is not just coming to Royse City ISD, in many ways, she is already part of this community.
Shana brings to this role a truly remarkable depth of experience as an educator, a campus leader, and a lifelong learner.
She holds a Bachelor of Music from Union University, a Master of Music in Church Music Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Master of Education in School Administration from Lamar University, and she is currently completing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a Superintendent certification from Midwestern State University. Her academic journey alone speaks to a person who never stops growing and never stops reaching.
Before stepping into campus leadership, Shana built a rich and diverse classroom career. She served as a Special Education Resource teacher, where she led instructional modeling for pull-out and inclusion services and took on campus leadership roles including PBIS Coordinator, and Title 1 Family Engagement Specialist. That breadth of classroom experience, across special education, fine arts, and general instruction, gives her a perspective on teaching and learning that very few school leaders possess.
Shana has served as an Assistant Principal at multiple campuses in Richardson ISD and, most recently, right here at W.R. Fort Elementary in Royse City ISD. In these roles she has touched virtually every dimension of campus leadership from testing and MTSS coordination to T-TESS evaluation, master scheduling, human capital management, trauma-informed care, Title 1 programming, and data-driven instructional practices. She is a leader who is equally comfortable in the details and in the big picture.
Mrs. Faulk is not a new face to Royse City ISD; she is very much a product of this community and a reflection of the commitment to excellence that defines our district. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and her Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from Texas A&M University at Commerce, and she has dedicated her entire professional career to serving the youngest and most foundational learners in our system.
Kimberly spent sixteen years at Miss May Vernon Elementary as a teacher and District Early Childhood Curriculum Lead, where she built expertise in early childhood instruction and curriculum development. Most recently, she has served as Dean of Students at Glenda Arnold, where she has already made a true impact, customizing instructional frameworks to align with early childhood developmental milestones, using student performance data to drive meaningful instructional improvements, and launching family engagement initiatives that have strengthened the bridge between school and home. She also spearheaded professional learning for ECSE, Head Start, and Pre-K teams, implementing evidence-based behavior management practices that have created a calmer, more focused learning environment for our youngest students.
This past summer, Kimberly took on the role of Principal for Royse City ISD's Elementary Summer School, where she oversaw all operations, from master scheduling and staff supervision to transportation logistics and targeted interventions for at-risk students. She led with confidence, care, and a level of organizational excellence that gave us every confidence in this appointment. In addition, Mrs. Faulk has completed rigorous leadership training through Royse City ISD’s Aspiring Principals Academy.
Mrs. Faulk is a person who leads with purpose, builds genuine relationships, and finds a way to bring people and resources together to get things done.
When: Tomorrow from 11:00 a.m. until food is gone.
Where: Baley Middle School (1310 East Hwy 66) in the back parking lot.
Nos enorgullece asociarnos con el Banco de Alimentos del Norte de Texas en el Programa de Despensa Escolar, que proporciona alimentos no perecederos y productos frescos de forma gratuita a estudiantes, personal y la comunidad a través de distribuciones escolares. Más información en: https://www.rcisd.org/article/2363602
Cuándo: Mañana de 11:00 a.m. hasta que se agoten los alimentos.
Dónde: En el estacionamiento posterior de la Secundaria Baley (1310 East Hwy 66).
Dr. Shelley Garrett named Chief of Student Services and Strategic Initiatives for Royse City ISD
Dr. Shelley Garrett, the new Chief of Student Services and Strategic Initiatives, has dedicated over twenty years to public education. After earning her Doctor of Education from Texas A&M University-Commerce, she held various roles in large, rapidly expanding districts, including teacher, campus administrator, and a recognized leader in Student and Family Services in multiple school districts. Most recently, she served for seven years as the Assistant Superintendent of Safety and Operations in Garland ISD.
Dr. Garrett is a published author and a recognized expert in the Texas Education Code Chapter 37, Behavioral Threat Assessment, and School Emergency Planning. She is passionate about developing efficient processes and streamlined systems that better support staff and improve services for students. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University, her master's from the University of North Texas, and her doctorate from Texas A&M University–Commerce.
Bringing significant expertise in wraparound services to Royse City ISD, Dr. Garrett specializes in creating systems that support the success of at-risk students. Her professional background includes collaborating with community agencies and local law enforcement to foster secure learning environments. She excels at navigating challenging situations with students and parents to provide appropriate support. Her deep understanding of Chapter 37 discipline and procedures is complemented by her commitment to restorative practices. We are excited to welcome Dr. Shelley Garrett as the newest member of the Royse City ISD leadership team.
Above all, Dr. Garrett is most grateful for her husband, children, and grandchildren. When she is not laughing or enjoying great food, she loves scuba diving and creating pottery.
RCISD Names Dr. Faith Ann Cheek as Chief Financial and Operations Officer
Royse City ISD is pleased to welcome Dr. Faith Ann Cheek as our Chief Financial and Operations Officer. With over 30 years in public education, Dr. Cheek brings a wealth of experience, ranging from classroom teaching to serving as an assistant principal and principal for 10 years. Her administrative leadership includes tenures as Director and Executive Director of Budget and Finance in a large 6A DFW district, as well as serving as Assistant Superintendent and Chief Financial Officer for Keystone Educational Entities. Most recently, she has served as our interim Executive Director of Finance, providing our staff and board with firsthand insight into her exceptional work ethic and expertise during numerous budget workshops. Dr. Cheek’s comprehensive background ensures she remains deeply attuned to campus and student needs while expertly navigating state and federal financial parameters.
Dr. Cheek is a sports enthusiast, and when she’s not working, she’s the loudest fan in the stands for her three children, Amy, Abilene, and Jack. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Faith Ann Cheek to RCISD.
Free Summer Meals for Kids:
Healthy summer meals are available to kids 18 and younger, and enrolled students up to 21 years old with disabilities through our summer feeding program.
Feeding will be served from the Anita Scott Elementary campus. Check out the dates and times for availability.
ANITA SCOTT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL | 1401 ERBY CAMPBELL BLVD | ROYSE CITY, TX 75189
JUNE
BREAKFAST 7:45 AM - 8:15 AM
LUNCH 12:15 PM - 1:00PM
JULY
BREAKFAST 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
LUNCH 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
JUNE 1, 2026 thru JULY 30, 2026 | MONDAY - FRIDAY | Closed for Holidays: June 19th, 29,30 July 1, 2, 3
For more information, call 972-636-2413.
RCISD is proud to announce Dr. Mariah Bailey as the 2026-27 Principal of Sara Moss Elementary School
Dr. Mariah Bailey is a leader whose academic excellence is matched only by her dedication to student success and teacher growth. Please join us in welcoming the new principal of Sara Moss Elementary, Dr. Mariah Bailey.
Dr. Bailey is a successful completer of our Aspiring Principal Program. She earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University, where she also obtained her Superintendent and Principal certifications. With two Master’s degrees, one in Curriculum and Instruction and another in Educational Leadership, she possesses a profound understanding of how to drive academic achievement.
In her current role as Assistant Principal, Dr. Bailey has consistently delivered measurable results. She has trained teachers in the PLC process and data-driven instruction, leading to consistent student growth and enhanced teacher effectiveness. She created operational PBIS systems that substantially decreased behavioral issues in common areas and facilitated the "Process Champions" team to strengthen school culture through Capturing Kids' Hearts.
She designed and implemented a Student Ambassador Program to foster leadership among our students and ensure a warm welcome for every new family.
Dr. Bailey has shared her expertise at the state level at the TEPSA Summer Conference, and frequently leads professional development on topics ranging from math vertical alignment to student leadership.
Known for building high levels of trust with parents and stakeholders, Dr. Mariah Bailey ensures that the partnership between home and school remains strong. She leads with clarity, precision, and heart. We are incredibly fortunate to have her at the helm as she begins this next chapter.
RCISD Welcomes Lindy Buchanan as the 2026-27 Principal of MMV Elementary
Mrs. Lindy Buchanan is a leader who embodies the spirit of Royse City ISD and brings 15 years of dedicated service to our community. She is a familiar face to many, known for leading with optimism, purpose, and a deep commitment to seeing every student and staff member realize their full potential.
Mrs. Buchanan's journey as an educator is marked by both academic excellence and hands-on impact. She currently serves as the assistant principal at Miss May Vernon, and has also served as an Interim Principal during her time at RCISD.
As an Assistant Principal, Mrs. Buchanan supported student and teacher growth by leading weekly data talks and focused walkthroughs to align teaching strategies with student performance.
Committed as a lifelong learner, herself, Lindy just successfully completed our Aspiring Principal Academy.
Lindy’s impact goes beyond the classroom. She has a heart for every student’s unique needs, evidenced by her history as a Dyslexia Therapist and her work with trauma-informed practices. She is a true "Process Champion" who has
launched campus-wide PBIS initiatives, spearheaded high-impact events, and
guided fellow educators through targeted coaching cycles to help them reach their professional goals.
Lindy is an achiever and a learner who balances decisive leadership with a collaborative spirit. Under her guidance, Miss May Vernon will continue to be a place of innovation, resilience, and high expectations.
RCISD is excited to introduce Mr. Michael Pierotti as our new Director of Special Education
Michael Pierotti brings a rare and powerful combination of campus leadership experience and a deep, foundational heart for students with special needs. Mr. Pierotti joins us with a career dedicated to instructional excellence and inclusive programming. His background makes him uniquely qualified to lead our special education systems toward even greater heights.
As an elementary principal, Mr. Pierotti led a high-needs campus of over 675 students, specifically overseeing LIFE, Autism, and ECSE Autism classrooms. He also successfully improved the “Closing the Gaps" score from 65 to 83, earning TEA distinctions for Comparative Academic Growth. Mr. Pierotti has a proven history of strengthening compliance with IDEA and Section 504, leading favorable due process outcomes while serving as a campus principal.
What sets Mr. Pierotti apart is that his leadership is grounded in direct classroom experience. He began his journey as a Special Education Teacher, serving as a Resource and Content Mastery Teacher and an ARD Vice Chair. This means he understands the daily reality of our teachers, the complexities of the ARD process, and the specific needs of our diverse learners.
Mr. Pierotti is a leader who doesn't just manage systems, he builds people. We are excited to have his strategic vision and compassionate leadership guiding our Special Education Department.
When: Tomorrow from 11:00 a.m. until food is gone.
Where: Baley Middle School (1310 East Hwy 66) in the back parking lot.
Nos enorgullece asociarnos con el Banco de Alimentos del Norte de Texas en el Programa de Despensa Escolar, que proporciona alimentos no perecederos y productos frescos de forma gratuita a estudiantes, personal y la comunidad a través de distribuciones escolares. Más información en: https://www.rcisd.org/article/2363602
Cuándo: Mañana de 11:00 a.m. hasta que se agoten los alimentos.
Dónde: En el estacionamiento posterior de la Secundaria Baley (1310 East Hwy 66).
When: Tomorrow from 11:00 a.m. until food is gone.
Where: Baley Middle School (1310 East Hwy 66) in the back parking lot.
Nos enorgullece asociarnos con el Banco de Alimentos del Norte de Texas en el Programa de Despensa Escolar, que proporciona alimentos no perecederos y productos frescos de forma gratuita a estudiantes, personal y la comunidad a través de distribuciones escolares. Más información en: https://www.rcisd.org/article/2363602
Cuándo: Mañana de 11:00 a.m. hasta que se agoten los alimentos.
Dónde: En el estacionamiento posterior de la Secundaria Baley (1310 East Hwy 66).
RCISD is proud to announce Dr. Kelsey Bowles as our new Director of Special Education for Royse City ISD!
Dr. Bowles brings an exceptional depth of knowledge and a proven track record in special education compliance, inclusive systems design, and student advocacy. With expertise in IDEA and Section 504 regulations, federal program oversight, and campus turnaround leadership, she is uniquely equipped to lead and strengthen our Special Education department at the district level.
Her distinguished career spans roles as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, campus principal, and Section 504 Coordinator. Most recently at Royse City High School, she has built and refined systems for identification, evaluation, and individualized accommodation planning while ensuring full regulatory compliance and supporting high-need students with care and precision.
As a campus principal, Dr. Bowles demonstrated remarkable results, elevating one campus from a B to an A rating with a Distinction in Closing the Gaps, and turning around another campus from an F to a C within her very first year. Her commitment to data-driven outcomes, equitable access, and collaborative partnerships between general and special education teams speaks directly to the heart of what our students and families deserve.
Dr. Bowles was also recognized in a previous district as Principal of the Year. She brings passion, integrity, and a deep commitment to every learner she serves. A previous supervisor stated, “Dr. Bowles has proven herself as a leader. She is collaborative, approachable, and consistently contributes to a culture of trust and mutual respect. She is equally effective working within a team and engaging with leadership, often serving as a bridge between the two.”
We are honored to have Dr. Bowles leading this vital work for Royse City ISD. Please join us in warmly welcoming Dr. Bowles to her new role!
RCISD is excited to announce Kyle Causey as our new Director of Fine Arts for Royse City ISD!
Kyle brings a unique and well-rounded perspective to this role, combining fifteen years of experience in education with a deep-rooted passion for the arts. He began his career as a band director, serving students in grades 6–12 across Royse City, Terrell, and Quinlan ISDs before transitioning into educational leadership, a journey that gives him an authentic understanding of both the artistic and administrative sides of fine arts programs.
Kyle earned his Bachelor of Science in Music Education Cum Laude before going on to complete his Master of Education in Educational Administration. His academic foundation, combined with nearly a decade of campus leadership experience, positions him perfectly to champion and grow the fine arts across our district.
Kyle is known for his ability to build strong relationships with students, staff, and community stakeholders, and for his commitment to empowering those around him. He is a dynamic communicator, a skilled facilitator, and a recognized leader, having been named the TASSP Region 10 Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year for 2024–2025.
Dr. Squalls, Chief Academic Officer, stated, “Kyle Causey is an educational leader whose foundation in the arts has shaped both his passion and his purpose. Beginning his career as a band director, Kyle developed a deep understanding of what it means to inspire and lead, skills he has carried throughout his leadership journey. His deep commitment to the Royse City community makes him exceptionally well-positioned to serve RCISD as Director of Fine Arts.”
We are ready for the energy, vision, and heart that Kyle will bring to our fine arts community. Please join us in welcoming Mr. Causey to this new chapter!
Melissa Harvey Named Executive Director of Student Services
RCISD is thrilled to announce Melissa Harvey as our new Executive Director of Student Services for Royse City ISD! This role provides strategic leadership for district-wide student support programs, focusing on student well-being and academic success by coordinating various student support services.
Melissa brings over twenty years of dedicated service in public education, and those who have had the privilege of working alongside her know that she leads with a servant’s heart. Whether stepping in to support a campus in need, mentoring a new administrator, or rolling up her sleeves to solve a complex challenge, Melissa has consistently shown up for students, staff, and colleagues without hesitation. Her willingness to serve is not simply a professional attribute; it is who she is.
Throughout her career, Melissa has built meaningful relationships across multiple campuses, earning the trust and respect of educators, administrators, and families alike. She understands that strong relationships are the foundation of everything we do in public education, and she has made investing in people a hallmark of her leadership.
As a principal, Melissa has demonstrated an impressive breadth of expertise , from master scheduling and curriculum development to restorative discipline, special education compliance, and CTE innovation. She has driven measurable gains in student achievement, expanded access to dual credit and advanced coursework, and created systems that support every learner, including those who need the most.
Melissa’s depth of experience, collaborative spirit, and genuine passion for student success make her exceptionally well-suited to lead our Student Services division. We are confident she will strengthen supports for our students and build lasting partnerships that move our district forward.
Please join us in celebrating Mrs. Harvey in her new role!
#experienceRCISD
When: Tomorrow from 11:00 a.m. until food is gone.
Where: Baley Middle School (1310 East Hwy 66) in the back parking lot.
Nos enorgullece asociarnos con el Banco de Alimentos del Norte de Texas en el Programa de Despensa Escolar, que proporciona alimentos no perecederos y productos frescos de forma gratuita a estudiantes, personal y la comunidad a través de distribuciones escolares. Más información en: https://www.rcisd.org/article/2363602
Cuándo: Mañana de 11:00 a.m. hasta que se agoten los alimentos.
Dónde: En el estacionamiento posterior de la Secundaria Baley (1310 East Hwy 66).
