Waxahachie High School is starting the year with new leadership and fresh energy as two experienced administrators step into key roles on campus. Principal Tony Escoto took the role of head principal, and Ms. Vanessa Kelsey joined the team as assistant principal. Both leaders spoke of their diverse backgrounds, proven experience and a shared commitment to support students while strengthening the traditions that make WHS feel like home.

Principal Escoto takes the reigns

Waxahachie High School welcomes a familiar face into a new role this year as Mr. Tony Escoto officially steps in as principal.

Having already served the campus as both assistant principal and associate principal, Escoto says his time in those roles has given him a deep understanding of what makes the school special.

“Being in both roles has allowed me to truly learn the heart of WHS — our students, our staff, our families and our culture,” Escoto said. “I’ve seen the daily challenges and the daily wins, and I’ve built real relationships across campus. That experience prepares me to lead with understanding, trust and a clear vision for what our school needs to continue growing and succeeding.”

As he begins his first year as principal, Escoto has identified three major priorities: consistency, communication and student success.

He emphasized the importance of creating dependable systems and clear expectations so students feel supported every day. He also plans to strengthen communication between students, staff, parents and the community to build trust and transparency. Above all, his focus remains on ensuring every student has the academic, social and emotional support needed to thrive.

Looking ahead, Escoto’s vision centers on building school pride and preparing students for life beyond high school.

“My vision is for WHS to be a school students are proud of — proud to attend, proud to represent and proud to graduate from,” he said. “A place where students feel challenged, supported and prepared for life after high school, whether that’s college, careers, military service or the workforce.”

Creating an inclusive environment is also a top priority. Escoto believes strong relationships are the foundation of a successful campus.

“By building relationships, listening and leading with respect,” he explained, “I want every student, teacher and family member to feel valued and heard. Inclusion means making sure everyone belongs, everyone matters and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”

During his time as associate principal, Escoto worked to improve campus systems, including refining the STAAR testing process and collaborating with staff to solve discrepancies and improve efficiency. These efforts helped lay the groundwork for stronger organization across the school.

Outside of work, Escoto values time with his family, often exploring local antique shops and trying new restaurants around town.

Welcome Ms. Vanessa Kelsey

WHS is excited to welcome our new assistant principal, who brings a wide range of experience and a genuine love for the school community and tradition, she said.

Before joining WHS, she worked at a charter school serving students from Pre-K all the way through 12th grade.

“So yes, kinda crazy,” she laughed. Kelsey said serving as an administrator there allowed her to see how students grow over time.

“Being able to see how the curriculum changes, how kids kinda mature over time … I think will really help me gather that aspect,” Kelsey said.

Prior to that, she spent 10 years with Desoto ISD as a coordinator for the agricultural program.

“Being at another large school district, I think I can bring a little flare here,” she said.

What stood out to her about WHS was its unique balance.

“It’s a big campus in a small town — it has a small town feel,” she said.

When asked what drew her specifically to WHS, she spoke on her love for traditions and hearing from former coworkers already at WHS making the decision easy.

““It’s more homey here, and that’s what I was looking for,” Kelsey said.

In her first year, her goals are clear and student-focused.

“I hope to help implement things that help with instruction, improve policies and procedures and of course, build relationships with my students and teachers,” Kelsey said.

Outside of school, there’s plenty to know about her too. She was born in Germany, grew up with family in the Army, is originally from New York and moved to Texas in high school. Her parents are from Panama, making her proudly Panamanian. In her free time, she enjoys shopping and reading — especially listening to audiobooks.

“I’m a big audiobook and Kindle girly,” she said.

Together, Escoto and Kelsey represent a leadership team grounded in experience, relationships and heart. Their dedication to clear communication, strong systems and student growth sets a positive tone for the year ahead. As they build on the school’s traditions while introducing new ideas, Waxahachie High School is poised to continue growing as a place where every student feels supported, valued and proud to call WHS home.