District News

WACO, TX — Waco Independent School District (Waco ISD) is proud to announce that Jerry Allen, the district’s current Chief Technology Officer, has been promoted to an expanded leadership role. Effective March 16, 2026, Allen has assumed the responsibilities of Chief Operations Officer, where he will now oversee the integration of both the district’s technology and operational departments.

This appointment comes as Gloria Barrera, the current Chief Operations Officer, prepares for her retirement on March 27, 2026. Allen will lead the unified departments to ensure a seamless transition and continued excellence in district infrastructure.

Since joining Waco ISD in May 2020, Allen has served as the Chief Technology Officer, managing operational and instructional technology services, library services, and safety and security technology. His tenure has been defined by his mission of improving performance, enhancing programs, and inspiring systemic change.

Allen brings a unique blend of educational leadership, large-scale operational experience, and 20 years in the education field to this dual role. 

• Operational Background: Prior to his career in public education, Allen served as a District Operations Manager for Learning Care Group, Inc., where he oversaw 17 facilities and 380 employees.
• Educational Leadership: He holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington and has served in various leadership capacities, including Assistant Principal and Executive Director of Technology.
• Professional Certification: Allen is a Registered Texas School Business Administrator (RTSBA) through the Texas Association of School Business Officials, has his Texas Teacher certification and Texas Principal certification.

"We are incredibly excited to have Mr. Allen transition into this expanded leadership role as our Chief Technology and Operations Officer," said Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent of Waco ISD. "Jerry is a highly effective leader with a proven ability to motivate teams and a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing district administration.”

In his new capacity, Allen will continue to leverage his expertise in state and federal funding, and safety and security grant implementation to benefit the district’s physical and digital landscape. His proven ability to manage complex district-wide life cycle replacement planning and project management makes him uniquely qualified to lead Waco ISD's operations.

“I am honored to accept this new challenge and continue serving the Waco ISD community in this expanded capacity,” said Jerry Allen. “I have always believed that while technology is a transformational tool for educators, its success is deeply rooted in solid operational infrastructure. I look forward to collaborating across all departments to ensure our systems work seamlessly together, allowing our teachers to focus on what they do best: teaching.”