District News

WACO, TX — Waco Independent School District is proud to announce the appointment of Daphanie Latchison as the principal of J.H. Hines Elementary School. Latchison, who has served as the school’s acting principal since December 8, 2025, brings over two decades of diverse educational leadership and a deep personal connection to the Waco community.

A proud product of Waco ISD, Latchison attended district schools from first through 12th grade and is a graduate of Waco High School. Her appointment as principal follows a successful tenure as acting principal, where her extensive experience in instructional leadership and community outreach has already begun to foster a supportive environment for students and staff.

"Ms. Latchison’s proven track record as an instructional leader is a powerful asset to J.H. Hines," said Dr. Melissa King-Knowles, Deputy Superintendent of Waco ISD. "Her expertise in data-driven interventions and her passion for creating supportive learning environments make her the ideal leader to guide the school into the future."

Latchison’s career in public education is marked by significant leadership roles at multiple levels. Most recently, she served as the Director of Credit Recovery Systems for Waco ISD, overseeing programs at both Waco High and University High School. Latchison served as the principal of the former Brazos High Credit Recovery for eight years, where she successfully maintained strong accountability ratings for a 100 percent at-risk student population. She also served as an Assistant Principal at Waco High School for four years. Prior to her administrative career, Latchison taught at the elementary level in Waco ISD, Killeen ISD, and overseas at Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany, specializing in reading intervention for grades 3 through 5.

Latchison holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Baylor University and a Master of Education in Teacher Leadership, along with principal certification, from Lamar University.

As a mother of three and a lifelong learner, Latchison is deeply committed to the partnership between home and school. She finds great joy in fostering the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of her students, ensuring they are empowered to become the next generation of leaders.