Lago Vista ISD

Lago Vista ISD
News & Announcements

LVISD Announces New Leadership for 2026–2027 School Year

Each of these leaders brings valuable experience, a passion for student success, and a commitment to supporting both staff and campuses across the district.

These additions reflect LVISD’s continued focus on growth, collaboration, and excellence in serving all students. For more information about each of these new leaders, please choose a tab below to learn more about each.

Chad Ouelette
Brandie Guzman
Chelsea Murphy
Cody Redfern

Lago Vista ISD is pleased to announce the hiring of Chad Ouellette as the new Assistant Principal of Lago Vista Middle School.

Ouellette brings more than 27 years of experience in education, leadership, and organizational development to the district. He joins Lago Vista ISD from Lake Travis ISD, where he most recently served as an assistant principal at the middle school level from 2021 to 2026. Prior to that, he served as Assistant Director of Special Education in Austin ISD and has held a variety of educational leadership roles throughout his career, including teacher, instructional coach, principal, and executive director.

Throughout his career, Ouellette has led high-performing teams, developed comprehensive professional learning programs, and presented nationally on evidence-based practices and school improvement strategies. He has trained thousands of educators and leaders across the country and is recognized for his work in strategic planning, continuous improvement, and fostering collaborative, student-centered cultures. He also brings extensive experience in campus safety, student wellness initiatives, and partnering with local agencies to create safe and supportive learning environments.

"Middle school has always been the most rewarding level for me because it is a critical time in students' academic and personal development," said Ouellette. "I believe in building strong relationships, maintaining high expectations, and creating systems that support every student. I am excited to join the Lago Vista community and look forward to partnering with students, staff, and families to continue the tradition of excellence at Lago Vista Middle School."

"I am excited to welcome Chad to Lago Vista Middle School," said Principal Cody Redfern. "Having served in the same district, I know his commitment to students, relationships, and continuous improvement. He will be a tremendous asset to our campus and community."

As Assistant Principal, Ouellette will work alongside campus leadership to support student achievement, strengthen school culture, and ensure all students have opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.

Ouellette and his wife are the proud parents of twin boys who will begin their junior year of high school this fall. He says his experiences as both an educator and parent have reinforced the importance of creating supportive, communicative, and safe school environments for all students.

Please join us in welcoming Chad Ouellette to the Viking family and Lago Vista ISD community.

Lago Vista ISD is proud to announce the hiring of Brandie Guzman as its new Director of Curriculum, Assessment, and Accountability, bringing a proven track record of academic growth, systems alignment, and student success.

With leadership experience spanning both rural and urban districts, she has built a reputation for driving measurable improvement through strong instructional systems, data-informed decision-making, and a relentless focus on high expectations for all students. Her work has led to significant gains in district performance, including elevating accountability ratings and establishing sustainable practices that support long-term success.

She also brings extensive experience in expanding College, Career, and Military Readiness opportunities, including the implementation of innovative programs that increase access to industry certifications and postsecondary pathways. Her leadership emphasizes not only strong systems, but also a culture where students, staff, and families believe in what is possible.

“I am excited to join Lago Vista ISD and support the district’s commitment to excellence,” she shared. “By aligning curriculum, instruction, assessment, and accountability, we can ensure every student is prepared for success beyond graduation.”

In this role, she will partner closely with campus leaders and teachers to strengthen instructional practices, refine accountability systems, and continue expanding opportunities that prepare every Viking for life after high school.

Lago Vista ISD is pleased to announce the selection of Chelsea Murphy as the new Assistant Principal for Lago Vista Elementary School. A dedicated educational leader and Lago Vista resident, Murphy brings a strong commitment to fostering academic success, positive school culture, and meaningful connections with students, staff, and families.

Murphy has served in a variety of roles including classroom teacher, special education team leader, and assistant principal. She is passionate about strengthening instruction, supporting inclusive practices, and building systems that help all students succeed.

Her leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, empowerment, and relationships.

“I believe in being an agent of student and teacher empowerment and a catalyst for continuous growth,” Murphy said. “By building trusting relationships, fostering joy in learning, and maintaining high expectations, I am committed to helping every learner reach their fullest potential.”

As a Lago Vista resident, Murphy is especially excited to serve the students and families of the community she calls home. In her new role at LVES, she looks forward to supporting instructional excellence, contributing to a positive school culture, and building strong partnerships with families and the broader community.

“We are excited to welcome Chelsea to the Viking family,” said district leadership. “Her experience, passion for students, and commitment to excellence make her a great fit for Lago Vista Elementary.”

Lago Vista ISD is proud to announce the hiring of Cody Redfern as the new principal of Lago Vista Middle School for the 2026-2027 school year.

Redfern brings strong instructional leadership experience from Lake Travis ISD, where he has served as an assistant principal and campus leader focused on building a culture where students and teachers feel supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential. His leadership is grounded in a commitment to academic excellence, student engagement, and the overall well-being of every learner. He sets high expectations for both student achievement and behavior, and has implemented clear, consistent systems to support this focus, ensuring that all students are held accountable while receiving the guidance and support they need to succeed.

Throughout his career, Redfern has worked alongside educators to strengthen instructional rigor, enhance professional learning communities, and implement systems that drive student success and attendance. He has extensive experience developing data-driven processes to support students’ academic and emotional needs, while fostering collaboration with teachers and families. His background also includes serving as a 504 and MTSS coordinator, testing coordinator, and summer school principal - roles that have strengthened his ability to lead efficient, student-centered campus operations.

“I am excited to join the Lago Vista community and build on the strong foundation already in place at the middle school,” Redfern shared. “I look forward to working alongside students, staff, and families to create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed.”

As principal, Redfern will focus on continuing to grow a culture of excellence, collaboration, and community engagement - ensuring students are actively engaged in meaningful learning and prepared for future success.

LVISD Will Resume Normal Operations Wednesday, January 28Jan 27, 2026

Lago Vista ISD will resume normal school operations tomorrow, Wednesday, January 28.

With warmer temperatures, road conditions improved significantly today. We still encourage everyone to allow a little extra time and use additional caution during your morning commute. Please be patient with our bus routes if they are running behind, as our drivers will also be exercising extra precaution.

We look forward to seeing our Vikings tomorrow!

LVISD Closed Tuesday, January 27Jan 26, 2026

Lago Vista ISD will be closed Tuesday, January 27. After careful consideration and in consultation with local authorities and emergency services, LVISD will remain closed to prioritize the safety of our students and staff. While main roads may appear clear, many streets along our bus routes remain icy or wet, especially in hilly and shaded areas. With temperatures dropping well below freezing again tonight, refreezing is expected and may create additional hazardous road conditions.

All non-varsity level activities scheduled for tomorrow are canceled. A decision regarding varsity level games will be made before noon tomorrow and shared through our social media channels. Coaches will also communicate updates through their usual methods.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to prioritize the safety of our students, staff, and families. We look forward to welcoming our Vikings back on Wednesday, when we plan to resume our normal operating schedule.

LVISD Classes Canceled Monday, January 26Jan 25, 2026

Lago Vista ISD has cancelled all classes and activities for Monday, January 26, 2026. All district facilities will be closed. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority.

At this time, we expect to resume normal school operations on Tuesday; however, we will continue to monitor road conditions and provide updates through our usual communication channels.

Please stay safe and warm.

LV High School Classes Canceled Tomorrow-City Water Issue November 30, 2025

LVHS Families,

We were just notified by the LV City Manager that Lago Vista High School will not have water tomorrow. The city is bringing in an out-of-town crew at 7:00 AM tomorrow and will work until the issue is resolved.

As a result, classes at Lago Vista High School are canceled for tomorrow, Monday, December 1st. Lago Vista High School staff will work remotely and will receive additional instructions from the campus. Athletic practices may be held, but athletes must bring water for hydration.

All other campuses, departments, and District operations are running normally.

We expect to resume normal operations at the high school on Tuesday. We will provide additional updates as they become available. Thank you for your understanding while the city works to restore water service.

November 17, 2025

The Lago Vista ISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve the official hiring of Dr. Mindy Curran as the next superintendent of Lago Vista ISD during a regular board meeting on Monday, November 17, 2025.

Dr. Curran brings 28 years of public education experience to the role, most recently serving as Interim Superintendent at Ingram ISD.

Timeline

June 10 - Darren Webb announced his intention to retire as Lago Vista ISD Superintendent, effective June 30, 2026
July 14 Regular Mtg - board voted to approve Leon | Alcala to assist with the search for a new superintendent
August 4 Special Mtg – Board meets to discuss and approve job description, qualifications, and timeline for superintendent search
August 7 District Professional Development - Leon | Alcala meets with faculty and staff for feedback on what they would like to see in their new superintendent
August 15-September 15 - community-wide input survey posted on district website and social media
August 15-September 15 - vacancy posted for candidate application submission
September 17 Special Mtg - Board meets to review 51 applicants and make selection of candidates to interview
September 23 Special Mtg - Candidate Interviews: Round 1 (3 interviews)
September 24 - Candidate Interviews: Round 1 (3 interviews)
September 25 - Candidate Interviews: Round 1 (2 interviews)
September 30 - Candidate Interview: Final Round
October 2 - Candidate Interview: Final Round
October 17 - Board Named Dr. Mindy Curran as Lone Finalist
November 17 - Board votes to hire Dr. Mindy Curran
December 17 - Meet & Greet with Dr. Curran
January 5, 2026 - Dr. Curran officially in the district

Lago Vista ISD School Board Announces Lone Finalist October 17, 2025

The Lago Vista ISD Board of Trustees is pleased to announce that Dr. Mindy Curran has been named the lone finalist for the position of Superintendent of Schools for Lago Vista ISD.

The Board made the selection following an extensive search process that included multiple rounds of interviews, stakeholder input, and careful consideration of candidates’ experience, leadership qualities, and alignment with the district’s vision and values.

Curran currently serves as Interim Superintendent at Ingram ISD. Throughout her 28 year career in education, Curran has demonstrated a strong commitment to student success, academic excellence, and collaborative leadership.

State law requires a 21-day waiting period before the Board can officially vote to employ the new superintendent. Following this period, the Board anticipates taking final action on November 10, 2025.

The Board extends its appreciation to all those who participated in the search process and looks forward to welcoming Dr. Mindy Curran as the next leader of Lago Vista ISD.

Lago Vista ISD School Board Announces Superintendent Retirement June 10, 2025

The Lago Vista ISD School Board would like to formally announce the upcoming retirement of our Superintendent, Mr. Darren Webb, effective June 30, 2026.

Mr. Webb has dedicated over 35 years to public education, and his leadership at Lago Vista ISD has been nothing short of transformative. With a deep commitment to student success, staff support, and community partnership, he has guided the district through tremendous growth and progress.

During his tenure, Lago Vista ISD has become a more united, forward-thinking, and resilient district — one that is well-positioned to meet the needs of students today and in the years to come. His vision, steady leadership, and unwavering dedication will leave a lasting legacy.

As we look toward the future, the School Board acknowledges that the process of selecting our next district leader is both significant and complex. We are committed to a thoughtful, transparent search and will keep our community informed every step of the way.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Webb for his exceptional service and leadership. On behalf of the entire School Board, faculty, staff, students, and the broader Lago Vista community, we congratulate him on his well-earned retirement.

We All Row!

Laura Vincent
President, Lago Vista ISD School Board

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