Leander ISD will have two new high school principals in the 2021-22 school year after the board of trustees approved the hires at its July 22 meeting.

Tonya Thompson will start as the Rouse High School principal for the upcoming school year. Thompson previously worked as the school's assistant principal and is the district's current director of advanced programs since 2018, according to LISD. Thompson replaces Christine Simpson, who was named an area superintendent in June.

“I am extremely excited and honored to serve as Rouse High School principal as this school truly holds a special place in my heart,” Thompson said in a district release. “I look forward to working alongside the students and staff and partnering with the community as we continue to build on the greatness of Rouse High School.”

Thompson previously taught social studies at Montgomery ISD and was a counselor in Conroe, Manor and Round Rock ISDs, according to the district release.

Additionally, Clay Currier will be the next New Hope High School principal. Currier is currently a Leander High School assistant principal.


“By expanding our innovative learning programs, we will provide a personalized educational experience based on student choice," Currier said in a release. "The accomplishments and dedication of the students and staff of New Hope High School are inspiring; I look forward to providing social, emotional and academic supports for our future graduates.”

New Hope High School is an alternative high school that gives students "a self-paced option for completing their high school graduation requirements," according to the district.

Currier previously worked in administration at Tyler and Round Rock ISDs, as a robotics teacher in Hutto ISD and a math teacher in West Texas, according to the district. Currier also served in the Navy as a nuclear electronics technician.