LIBERTY HILL, Texas — Liberty Hill ISD is pleased to announce the hiring of Christina Gamez as the principal of Lariat Trails Elementary, our eighth elementary school scheduled to open in August 2026. Mrs. Gamez will continue serving as principal of Bill Burden Elementary until the position has been filled, ensuring a smooth leadership transition while also supporting the planning and preparation for the district’s newest elementary school.

A graduate of Texas A&M University in May 2012, Christina has dedicated her entire career to serving the students and families of Liberty Hill ISD. She began her journey with the district in 2012 at Bill Burden Elementary School, where she taught physical education to second- through fourth-grade students.

In 2017, she joined Rancho Sienna Elementary as part of the founding staff, helping open the new campus serving PreK through fourth grade. During her time there, she continued teaching, led the campus specials team, and supervised paraprofessionals.

Her leadership path continued to expand in 2020 when she helped open Santa Rita Elementary School as an assistant principal intern. While serving in this role, she also remained in the classroom and took on additional responsibilities as the campus Tier II behavior coordinator. After earning her Master’s degree in Educational Administration in 2021, Gamez was appointed assistant principal at Bill Burden Elementary School. In June 2024, she was named principal of the campus.

Now, Mrs. Gamez looks forward to leading the opening of Lariat Trails Elementary and establishing a strong foundation for students, staff, and families. “Opening a new school is a unique opportunity to build a culture rooted in connection, collaboration, and high expectations from day one,” said Gamez. “I’m honored to be entrusted with this role and excited to work alongside our community to create a welcoming campus where students feel known, supported, and inspired to learn.”

Liberty Hill ISD Interim Superintendent Travis Motal shared enthusiasm for the appointment. “Christina brings a deep understanding of Liberty Hill ISD, a proven track record of instructional leadership, and a genuine passion for serving students and families,” said Motal. “Her experience opening schools and as a current elementary principal makes her the ideal choice to open a new campus and serve as the founding principal of Lariat Trails Elementary.”

A Central Texas native who grew up in Cedar Park, Christina and her family are proud members of the Liberty Hill ISD community. She values the strong sense of connection and shared commitment to excellence that define the district.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Nick, and their two sons, third-grader Samuel and kindergartener, Levi. In her free time, Mrs. Gamez enjoys family walks, playing with the family’s goldendoodle, Lucy, and cheering on the Texas A&M Aggies.