Bastrop ISD is proud to announce the addition of two new directors who will support the district’s instructional programs at the elementary and secondary levels. Dr. Danielle Riddick has been named Director of Elementary Education and Dr. Jeremy Small has been named Director of Secondary Education. Both leaders bring a passion for student success, a wealth of experience, and a strong commitment to educational excellence. Read more about their backgrounds and vision for Bastrop ISD below.
Dr. Danielle Riddick named Director of Elementary Education
Dr. Danielle Riddick has been named Director of Elementary Education for Bastrop ISD. This role provides leadership of the District’s Pre-Kindergarten through 5th-grade teaching and learning programs. Her new role will begin on July 14.
"It's truly an honor to join the Bastrop ISD learning community!” said Dr. Riddick. “In my 15 years as an educator, I've been privileged to work with amazing students and effective, dedicated teachers. I know that my time in Bastrop ISD will be no different. I look forward to partnering with this community's stakeholders to continue the work of preparing students for their best future."
Riddick prides herself on leadership development, organizational well-being, and strategic relations. She began her career as a teacher for Mark Twain Elementary and then was a Reading Coach for Forest Lane Academy, both in Richardson ISD. Later, she was an Assistant Principal at Sewell Elementary in Garland ISD. Most recently, she served as the Principal for Lister Elementary, also in Garland ISD, and as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Texas at Dallas.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Riddick to our Bastrop ISD family,” said Jennifer Eberly, Chief Academic Officer. “Her passion for student success, commitment to leadership development, and focus on building strong, collaborative school communities make her an excellent fit for this role. I am confident she will be a tremendous asset to our elementary team and the students and families we serve.”
Dr. Riddick earned her Doctor of Education from Southern Methodist University. She completed her Master of Education at the University of North Texas and received her Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas at El Paso.
Dr. Riddick enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, and loves traveling so she can see as much of the world as possible.
Dr. Jeremy Small named Director of Secondary Education
Dr. Jeremy Small has been named Director of Secondary Education for Bastrop ISD. This role provides leadership of the District’s 6th-grade through 12th-grade teaching and learning programs. He began this role earlier this month.
“I am elated to join a team that is teeming with hunger for the betterment of students, staff, and the community. One of my sayings represents my drive for education: "You must do the heart work before the hard work." There is no doubt that my heart is for scholarship and students, and I look forward to creating synergy with all whom I come into contact with. Education is swiftly and ever-changing, and it will be my job to ensure we are providing our secondary students with the best. I look forward to working for students, working with staff, and working in the community,” said Dr. Small.
Dr. Jeremy Small began his career in education as an Academic Coordinator at Center Middle School in Center ISD, where he led curriculum alignment efforts for 6th through 8th-grade science and social studies. While in this position, Dr. Small played a key role in boosting 8th grade STAAR scores, increasing science proficiency by 17% and social studies scores by 11%. After this position, Dr. Small served as Assistant Principal at Center High School, Center ISD, before advancing to the position of Principal at San Augustine High School in San Augustine ISD, overseeing both middle and high school levels. Most recently, Dr. Small was Principal of Port Arthur Memorial High School in Port Arthur ISD. Under his leadership, the school saw significant improvements across all End of Course exams, with scores rising by at least 5%. He also expanded academic opportunities by increasing College Board Advanced Placement exam participation and scores, and spearheaded the development of two new Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, providing students with greater access to industry-relevant programs of study.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Small to our District,” said Jennifer Eberly, Chief Academic Officer for Bastrop ISD. “His proven track record of improving student outcomes and expanding academic opportunities makes him an outstanding fit to lead our secondary programs. I’m confident his vision and dedication will help us continue to build strong, successful pathways for our students.”
Dr. Small earned his Doctor of Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin. He completed his Master of Education in Teaching at the University of Central Arkansas and received his Bachelor of Biology from Ouachita Baptist University.
Dr. Small said his absolute favorite thing to do is be a father to his wonderful daughter, Skylar-Marie. Second to being a dad, he is an avid reader who enjoys collecting sneakers, international travel, and watching all sports, but specifically the Texas Longhorns.
