On Monday, June 19, GCISD Trustees approved Jacqueline Van Horn as the new Director of Humanities. Van Horn had been a Reading Language Arts supervisor in Dallas ISD since 2015.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity for community advocacy, to build upon the great partnerships with teaching professionals, students and the community to create an educational experience that is engaging, rigorous and relevant," Van Horn said.
The search for a new Director of Humanities began in May when it was announced that Dr. Suzanne Newell would assume the role of Executive Director of Learning.
Van Horn began her career in 2004 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho as a bilingual and general education teacher where she designed her own curriculum to teach Spanish as a second language. She was also nominated for Rookie Teacher of the Year and was recognized for her extensive parent outreach and collaboration. In 2012 she became an elementary instructional literacy coach where she designed and delivered professional development to 10 elementary campuses.
“I can’t wait to see the insights Jacqui will bring to the work of GCISD Humanities,” said GCISD Director of Learning Dr. Suzanne Newell. “Her background seems perfectly suited to engage teachers and students in thoughtful and engaging ways.”
Van Horn graduated from McGill University in Montreal, Quebec with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and then received a master’s degree in education from University of Idaho.