Pasadena Independent School District Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pasadena Independent School District has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, information technology, finance, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Pasadena Independent School District provides advanced academics, libraries, athletics, and fine arts, shaping future leaders through comprehensive educational programs.

Leadership Roles at Pasadena Independent School District

  • Chief Financial Officer - Tamika Alford-Stephens
  • Chief Operating Officer - Carol Salazar
  • President - Celia Layton
  • Chief of Staff - Jeremy Richardson
  • Chief Information Officer - Joannie Beecher
  • Chief Technology Officer - Melissa McCalla
  • Tamika Alford-Stephens - Chief Financial Officer

    Tamika Alford-Stephens, the Chief Financial Officer at Pasadena Independent School District, directs the comprehensive financial management and strategic fiscal planning for the organization. Overseeing budgeting, accounting, payroll, and financial reporting, Alford-Stephens ensures the sound stewardship of district resources to support educational programs and operational needs throughout Texas. This critical role involves developing and implementing financial policies, managing investments, and securing funding to sustain the district's commitment to advanced academics, libraries, athletics, and fine arts. Alford-Stephens' leadership is essential for maintaining financial stability and transparency, enabling informed decision-making across all levels of the district. By meticulously managing fiscal operations, Tamika Alford-Stephens directly supports the district's mission to provide exceptional educational opportunities and foster student achievement.
    Tamika Alford-Stephens

    Carol Salazar - Chief Operating Officer

    Carol Salazar, the Chief Operating Officer at Pasadena Independent School District, manages the comprehensive operational framework supporting student learning and district functions. Overseeing facilities, transportation, food services, and safety protocols, Salazar ensures a secure and efficient environment for students and staff across Texas. This executive position involves strategic planning for infrastructure development and maintenance, optimizing resource deployment to meet the evolving needs of the educational community. Salazar's responsibilities extend to implementing best practices in operational management, driving cost-effectiveness and service quality. By directing these vital support systems, Carol Salazar underpins the district's ability to deliver advanced academics, libraries, athletics, and fine arts programs, directly impacting the student experience and overall district performance.

    Celia Layton - President

    Celia Layton, the President at Pasadena Independent School District, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the entire educational institution. Overseeing the board of trustees and guiding the district's vision, Layton ensures alignment with its core mission of delivering advanced academics, libraries, athletics, and fine arts programs to students in Texas. This executive position involves fostering strong governance, championing educational excellence, and representing the district's interests within the community and broader educational landscape. Layton's focus is on cultivating a culture of continuous improvement and accountability, ensuring that all district operations and initiatives effectively serve the needs of students and stakeholders. By leading the strategic initiatives and policy development, Celia Layton plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of education within the Pasadena Independent School District.

    Jeremy Richardson - Chief of Staff

    Jeremy Richardson, the Chief of Staff at Pasadena Independent School District, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across all district departments. Overseeing critical projects, Richardson ensures seamless execution of the district's educational mission and administrative functions. This leadership role involves close collaboration with executive leadership to translate strategic goals into actionable plans, driving efficiency and effectiveness throughout the organization. Richardson's focus remains on optimizing resource allocation and enhancing communication channels to support student achievement and community engagement. By managing key stakeholder relationships and facilitating interdepartmental synergy, Jeremy Richardson strengthens the district's capacity to deliver high-quality educational services and programs.

    Joannie Beecher - Chief Information Officer

    Joannie Beecher, the Chief Information Officer at Pasadena Independent School District, leads the strategic direction and management of all information technology infrastructure and services. Overseeing network operations, data management, and cybersecurity initiatives, Beecher ensures the integrity and accessibility of critical information systems that support educational delivery and administrative processes throughout Texas. This role is pivotal in safeguarding student and staff data while enabling seamless access to digital learning resources. Beecher's leadership focuses on implementing robust IT governance and policies, fostering innovation in technology adoption to enhance operational efficiency and student engagement. By directing these technological advancements, Joannie Beecher empowers the district to leverage information effectively, supporting its mission of providing advanced academics and comprehensive student programs.

    Melissa McCalla - Chief Technology Officer

    Melissa McCalla, the Chief Technology Officer at Pasadena Independent School District, drives the integration and application of technology to enhance educational outcomes and operational effectiveness. Overseeing the development and deployment of innovative technological solutions, McCalla ensures that students and educators have access to cutting-edge tools that support advanced academics, fine arts, and other key programs across Texas. This executive function involves identifying emerging technologies, managing software development lifecycles, and ensuring technology initiatives align with the district's strategic vision. McCalla's expertise is critical in fostering a digitally-enabled learning environment, promoting digital literacy, and optimizing the use of technology for administrative efficiency. Through strategic technology leadership, Melissa McCalla directly contributes to the district's commitment to student success and continuous improvement.
    Melissa McCalla

    Explore Leadership Teams in Education

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pasadena Independent School District Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pasadena Independent School District?
    Pasadena Independent School District is led by Tamika Alford-Stephens (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Carol Salazar (Chief Operating Officer) and Celia Layton (President).
    Who is part of Pasadena Independent School District’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pasadena Independent School District includes leaders such as Tamika Alford-Stephens (Chief Financial Officer), Carol Salazar (Chief Operating Officer), Celia Layton (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pasadena Independent School District have?
    Pasadena Independent School District has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pasadena Independent School District’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pasadena Independent School District includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer.