Principal Robert Gillis Transitions to Leander Middle School

Students and teachers engaged in learning at Leander Middle School

News Summary

Principal Robert Gillis has announced his departure from Rancho Sienna Elementary School to become the principal at Leander Middle School. After serving the Rancho Sienna community for a year, he reflects on his emotional journey, highlighting the strong bonds formed with students and staff. The Leander Independent School District has yet to announce a new principal for the elementary school.

Leander, Texas — Principal Robert Gillis has announced his departure from his role at Rancho Sienna Elementary School to take on a new position as principal at Leander Middle School within the Leander Independent School District. This transition comes after a year of dedicated service at the elementary school, where he was officially approved for the role in July 2024.

In an email sent to parents and staff, Gillis expressed his mixed emotions regarding this transition. He reflected on his journey beginnings in Leander as an assistant principal for six years, describing the Rancho Sienna community as family. While he is excited about his new role, he acknowledged the bittersweetness of leaving behind a community that he has grown close to in just one year.

As of now, a new principal for Rancho Sienna Elementary has not been announced. The school community is awaiting further information from the district regarding the future leadership of the school.

Background of Robert Gillis

Robert Gillis holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Angelo State University, which he earned in 2012, and a Master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2018. Before his tenure at Rancho Sienna, he accumulated valuable experience across three different school districts, which contributed to his comprehensive educational background.

Gillis has a total of 12 years of teaching experience, which includes serving as a history and math teacher in Rogers ISD, as well as a science teacher and tennis coach in Belton ISD. His diverse teaching background has equipped him with a multifaceted understanding of education, leadership, and relationship-building within the school community.

Community Engagement and Commitment

Upon taking the position at Rancho Sienna Elementary, Gillis emphasized the importance of developing strong relationships within the community as a core component of fostering educational success. His dedication to building a collegial environment supports not only academic achievement but also social development among students.

Gillis is supported by his wife, Erin, who is also an educator within Leander ISD, and together they raise three children. This family connection to education highlights their commitment to fostering learning environments both at home and in their respective schools.

Conclusion

The community at Rancho Sienna Elementary will undoubtedly feel the impact of Gillis’s departure as he transitions to Leander Middle School. The announcement has prompted discussions among parents and staff regarding the search for new leadership and the future of the school.

As the Leander Independent School District prepares for this change, the echoes of Gillis’s leadership and commitment to fostering a nurturing learning environment will continue to resonate as the school moves forward.