East Texas Advanced Academies (ETAA) has announced the appointment of Mrs. Melanie Pondant as the new ETAA Chief of Schools, effective December 1.
Mrs. Pondant will remain in her current role at Judson STEAM Academy and assist with the transition through November, officially stepping into her new position on December 1. Her position as Principal is expected to be posted soon, with a replacement named before the end of November.
“I am truly honored and excited to serve as Chief of Schools,” said Mrs. Pondant. “This opportunity allows me to continue supporting our students, staff, and families in a larger capacity, and I look forward to helping our schools reach even greater heights.”
Dr. Brian Ziemer, ETAA Chief Executive Officer and Chief Learner, expressed his excitement about the new appointment.
"Mrs. Pondant brings a wealth of experience and a passion for student achievement," he said. "We are thrilled to welcome her into this leadership role, and I am confident she will make a tremendous impact across our campuses."
ETAA Board President Mr. Judson Murray also shared his enthusiasm.
"We believe Mrs. Pondant is the perfect choice to guide our schools forward," he stated. "Her vision, energy, and dedication to excellence make her an outstanding leader for our students and community."
Mrs. Pondant has been serving as Principal at Judson STEAM Academy since 2019, where she has led with distinction, including her campus being named as a "Texas School to Watch" by the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals. An experienced educator, she has held various roles during her career at Longview ISD including Assistant Principal at Longview High School, Associate Principal at Longview High School, and Director of Secondary Curriculum & Instruction for LISD.
Mrs. Pondant holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Henderson State University in Arkansas and a Master of Education Degree from Texas A&M University at Texarkana, along with her Texas Superintendent’s Certification, also from Texas A&M-Texarkana.
East Texas Advanced Academies operates as a charter school system within Longview ISD, overseeing East Texas Montessori Prep Academy (Pre-K and K), Bramlette, J.L. Everhart, Johnston-McQueen, and Ware East Texas Montessori Academy elementary campuses, along with Forest Park Middle School.