Senior Leadership Team
dR. t. LAMAR GOREE
SUPERINTENDENT
Dr. T. Lamar Goree is a nationally recognized transformative leader whose leadership style reflects his unwavering commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and outcomes for all students. Dr. Goree’s inspiring vision, vast experience, and commitment to excellence and innovation make him a notable figure in the field of education, poised to lead Duncanville ISD to its next great chapter.
Before joining Duncanville ISD, Dr. Goree served as superintendent of Caddo Parish Public Schools (CPPS) in Shreveport, Louisiana, where he led a district of nearly 34,000 students across 57 schools. His tenure at Caddo Schools is noted for significant academic achievements, including reaching an all-time high graduation rate and producing numerous National Merit Scholars, perfect scores on the ACT, and U.S. Presidential Scholars. Under his leadership, three district schools were awarded National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence honors, one earned a Green Ribbon School designation, and another was named a National Title I School of Distinction.
He also spearheaded the implementation of top-rated curricula and prescriptive professional development for educators, directly aligning these efforts with student needs to enhance performance. Dr. Goree also introduced the Transformation Zone, a targeted intervention for the district's most underperforming schools, resulting in marked improvements in academic performance and graduation rates. He is also credited with being one of the longest-serving superintendents in the district’s history.
For a full biography, visit Dr. Goree's page.
Andrea H. Fields
Chief of staff
Mrs. Andrea Fields, Chief of Staff, provides essential operational support by managing district staff, overseeing special projects, and leading key initiatives. She plays a critical role in resolving complex issues, ensuring effective communication of expectations and deadlines, and supporting the Superintendent’s Executive Leadership Team.
With over 45 years in public education and 9 years at Duncanville ISD, Mrs. Fields brings extensive experience from various roles, including classroom teacher, campus principal, human resources and communications administrator, deputy superintendent, and chief operations officer. Prior to joining Duncanville ISD in 2016, she served as Deputy Superintendent at Longview Independent School District.
Mrs. Fields is a member of the Texas Association of School Administrators and a Lifetime Member of the Parent Teachers Association. Notably, she successfully managed the $102.545 million 2014 district bond program, delivering all projects on time and under budget.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Louisiana Tech University and a Master’s in Educational Administration from Stephen F. Austin State University. Committed to excellence, Mrs. Fields is a dedicated servant leader, focused on advancing the goals of Duncanville ISD and supporting both students and staff.
dR. SAMUEL NIX
CHIEF ACADEMIC OFFICER
Dr. Samuel Nix serves as Chief Academic Officer for Duncanville ISD, where he provides strategic support and feedback to instructional staff on district-wide school improvement initiatives and student services from grades K-12. His role encompasses the development and delivery of instructional programs, professional development, and the integration of instructional technology. Dr. Nix ensures effective management of instructional services through data utilization, collaborative processes, and research-based strategies.
Before his current position, Dr. Nix was the Chief of Schools for secondary campuses within Duncanville ISD. His tenure as a high school principal was marked by significant achievements, including his campus being recognized as one of the Top 32 Urban Schools in America by the National Center for Urban School Transformation (NCUST). Under his leadership, the school consistently ranked in the Top 10 within its peer group in Texas and he was named Principal of the Year for 2015-2016 in Arlington Independent School District.
Dr. Nix’s accolades include the Leadership-in-Education Award from the Texas House of Representatives, the Mary McLeod Bethune Heritage Award from the NAACP in 2010, the Dr. June James NAACP Education Award in 2016, and the Leadership Legacy Award from the Future Schools Network in 2019. He is also the author of *Six Steps to a Strong School Culture: A Leadership Cycle for Educational Success*, which offers practical strategies for cultivating a thriving school environment.
Dr. Nix holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Texas at Arlington, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M Commerce University.
dR. winnifred goodman
chief of schools
Dr. Winnifred Goodman serves as the Chief of Schools for Duncanville ISD, playing a crucial role in shaping and executing the district’s educational vision. In this capacity, she provides leadership, coaching, and support to campus leaders, creating an environment conducive to excellence for both educators and students.
Dr. Goodman's educational career began in 2000 as a middle school science teacher in Dallas ISD, where her enthusiasm for teaching quickly distinguished her. She progressed to assistant principal in Arlington and then principal in Cedar Hill ISD, where she led successfully for six years. Her subsequent roles in Duncanville ISD included Director of Elementary Education, Director of Schools, and Executive Director of Academics. Her current role as Chief of Schools consolidates her extensive experience and dedication to educational leadership.
Dr. Goodman holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Science in Teaching, complemented by a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University. She also possesses certifications as a teacher, principal, and superintendent, reflecting her commitment to ongoing professional development.
Beyond her district responsibilities, Dr. Goodman is actively engaged in the broader educational community. She serves on the Region 20 UIL Music Executive Committee and was named a 2023 Southern Methodist University District Leadership Fellow, highlighting her leadership and influence in education. Dr. Goodman's career is marked by her steadfast commitment to academic excellence and her dedication to nurturing future leaders, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
CONNIE WALLACE
CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Connie Wallace serves as the Chief Communications Officer for Duncanville ISD, leveraging over 25 years of expertise in education and program management to enhance the district's brand through strategic messaging and public relations. Her efforts notably elevate organizational awareness, engagement, and credibility, while driving substantial revenue through advertising, partnerships, donations, merchandising, and royalty agreements.
Mrs. Wallace's tenure with Duncanville ISD began as a teacher from 1999 to 2001. She returned to the district in 2021, initially as Chief of Special Initiatives and Collaborative Communities, where she managed special projects, spearheaded key initiatives, and supported both the Superintendent and Board of Trustees in communication efforts.
Before rejoining Duncanville ISD, Mrs. Wallace served as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Arlington ISD for six years, overseeing K-12 teaching and learning across all core content areas. In 2015, she was a finalist for Principal of the Year in Dallas ISD, where she also served as interim Director of the Dallas ISD Leadership Academy, developing a pipeline of effective principals for over 156,000 students.
A trained Cognitive Coach, Mrs. Wallace excels in professional learning design, project management, and fiscal operations. She holds Texas Superintendent certification and is an active member of the Holdsworth Center District Leadership Program Travel Team and the Duncanville Outreach Ministries Board of Directors. Mrs. Wallace earned her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M University and a Master of Science in Educational Administration from the University of Houston-Clear Lake.
pamela brown
chief of human resource Officer
Pamela Brown, Chief of Human Resources at Duncanville ISD, is responsible for overseeing the district's comprehensive HR functions, including staffing, wage and salary administration, leave management, performance appraisals, employee relations, and benefits.
With over 20 years of experience in education, Ms. Brown's career spans roles as a teacher and campus principal at both elementary and middle school levels, including a principalship within Duncanville ISD. Her extensive background also includes positions such as K-12 Math Coordinator, Deputy Superintendent of Human Resources and Administration, and Chief of Student Services and Campus Support.
Ms. Brown's notable achievements include leading a campus transformation in a previous district from needing improvement to earning 15 TEA Distinctions over four years and being named a TASBE Demonstration School. Additionally, she established a successful partnership with the United Way and Communities Foundation of Texas to launch the Dollars for College Program, creating 529 Savings Plans for kindergarten students.
Recognized for her impactful leadership, Ms. Brown is celebrated for driving positive outcomes for students and staff alike. Her collaborative approach and dedication to enhancing performance and efficiency have consistently improved district systems and processes.
Ms. Brown holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Economics from Prairie View A&M University, a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Superintendent Certification from the University of North Texas.
tellauance graham
chief of student services and campus support
Tellauance L. Graham is the Chief of Student Services and Campus Support for Duncanville ISD. He is responsible for overseeing key areas including student services, campus culture and restorative practices, counseling and guidance, student information (PEIMS), and health services. Mr. Graham also contributes to the development and implementation of district policies.
With over two decades in education, Mr. Graham has earned certifications in both Louisiana and Texas. His extensive experience spans roles such as Teacher, Coach, Assistant Principal, Principal, Director, and Assistant Superintendent. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Louisiana Tech University. As a teacher in Caddo Parish, he was recognized as the campus Teacher of the Year for his excellence in Biology and Chemistry instruction.
As a Principal, Mr. Graham successfully transformed a historically underperforming school into a top gains institution by revitalizing its culture, implementing Social-Emotional Learning, and enhancing academic rigor. His leadership at Caddo Middle Career School and Huntington High School resulted in increased enrollment, improved technology access, and a positive shift in community perception. He was honored as the district’s Principal of the Year in 2015.
In his prior role as Assistant Superintendent of Administration, Mr. Graham was instrumental in realigning the district through attendance zone adjustments, merging schools, and establishing a district-operated transportation department and enrollment center. He has also served on various district committees and the Cedar Hill Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Graham is deeply committed to enhancing the lives of students and is known for his passion and dedication to education.
maria zamora
chief of operations
As Chief of Operations for Duncanville ISD, Mari Zamora manages the daily operations of auxiliary services including school nutrition, transportation, maintenance, custodial, and warehouse functions, ensuring effective support across campuses and departments. She oversees multiple grants for facilities and safety, plays a key role on the district’s School & Safety Committee, and is actively involved in bond oversight and planning committees, managing various bond projects.
Mrs. Zamora brings over 25 years of experience in education, beginning her career as an elementary bilingual teacher and progressing to roles such as Accelerated Schools Facilitator and Reading First Coach. Joining Duncanville ISD in 2006, she has served as a Bilingual Instructional Specialist, Bilingual/ESL Coordinator, and Director of State & Federal Programs before becoming COO. As the inaugural Director of State & Federal Programs, she developed compliance programs, provided strategic training, and established the family engagement department to strengthen school-home partnerships.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas-Pan American, a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Lamar University, and an MBA in School Finance and Operations from Concordia University. Mrs. Zamora is a Certified Texas School Business Specialist (CTSBS), recognized by the Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO). Her educational contributions have been honored with the Region One Teacher of the Year award and the Spirit of a Champion award from Duncanville ISD in 2016.
dr. brian brown
chief technology officer
Dr. Brian Brown, Chief Technology Officer, leads the district's technology initiatives, driving strategic innovation and execution of technology programs. He collaborates with colleagues to enhance and implement the district’s strategic technological plans.
Dr. Brown’s career spans over 24 years in education, starting as a science teacher in Moore Public Schools, Oklahoma. His diverse roles include technology coordinator, technology director, and executive director. Prior to joining Duncanville ISD, he was the Executive Director of Data Management and Educational Information Officer at The University of Texas at Arlington’s College of Education.
Since 2016, Dr. Brown has been a board member of the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA), the largest educational technology organization in the U.S., and is currently serving as its President for the 2024-25 term. He is a recognized leader in information security, with expertise highlighted through regional, state, and national presentations, including his work on the "Shrek Model of Cybersecurity" featured in EdTech Magazine.
mitchell lambert
chief of police
Chief Mitchell Lambert, sworn in by the Duncanville ISD Board od Trustees in September 2022 is a key figure in ensuring safety and security within the district. Joining Duncanville ISD in 2014, he became an inaugural member of the Duncanville ISD Police Department in 2018.
Chief Lambert began his law enforcement career in 2010, amassing over 12 years of experience, with eight years dedicated to investigating child abuse and violent assaults. His career has been predominantly focused on school-based law enforcement. He is a graduate of the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration (ILEA) and holds multiple certifications, including Property and Evidence Management, TCOLE Instructor, Pressure Point Control Tactics Instructor, Interview and Interrogation, and Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Investigation.
Demonstrating his commitment to community service, Chief Lambert supported the Dallas Police Department during the aftermath of the tragic July 7, 2016 shootings, covering shifts to allow officers to attend funerals. He was featured on CBS for his involvement in the Panther 5.0 program, which mentors students and engages them in athletics and other school programs.
Highly regarded in the law enforcement community, Chief Lambert has forged strong relationships with the City of Duncanville and established a successful training partnership with the Duncanville Police Department. His dedication to safety and community involvement underscores his leadership and commitment to enhancing security within Duncanville ISD.
derick roberson
Chief of Athletic Operations
Derick Roberson, Director of Athletics, oversees the district’s athletic programs, managing daily operations, setting eligibility standards, and maintaining programs that foster sportsmanship and student development. He is responsible for preparing and administering the athletic budget and ensuring that resources align with the department’s goals.
With over 30 years in athletics, Mr. Roberson is a prominent leader in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. He began his career as a high school coach, achieving significant impact before transitioning to athletic administration. As a head football coach and campus athletic coordinator, he played a key role in advancing the careers of athletes and colleagues alike.
Mr. Roberson is committed to providing an exceptional experience for student-athletes at Duncanville, aiming to enhance their growth as productive members of society. His goal is to elevate the Duncanville athletic department to national prominence.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Texas Tech University and a Master of Education in Sports Administration from Concordia University in Austin.
Interim Dr. Edd Bigbee
CHIEF financial OFFICER
Dr. Ed Bigbee, Interim Chief Financial Officer, previously served as the Chief Financial Officer for Duncanville ISD from 2017 until his retirement in 2023. Dr. Bigbee will oversee the day-to-day financial operations, streamline processes, and work closely with our business and finance team as we search for our new CFO. Dr. Bigbee received his Ed. D. in Education Administration from Baylor University. He brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of excellence in finance. He has almost two decades of experience as a CFO and served as a Superintendent from 1999 to 2008.