District News

WACO, TX — With 18 years of expertise in career and technical education curriculum and instructional leadership, Jeffrey Cunningham has been selected as the new Dean of the Greater Waco Advanced Manufacturing Academy (GWAMA). Cunningham most recently served as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department Head, Engineering Teacher, and UIL Campus Coordinator at University High School in Waco. 

Prior to his selection for this administrative role, Cunningham treated his classrooms and advanced manufacturing labs as "technical ecosystems". He brings extensive experience in instructional leadership, having overseen departmental professional growth, managed multi-platform technical assets, and mentored new CTE faculty at University High School since 2009. Additionally, he serves as an Alternative Teacher Certification Content Instructor for STEM at McLennan Community College. 

In selecting the new leader for GWAMA, the district recognized Cunningham's deep expertise in advanced manufacturing frameworks and his ability to facilitate robust community partnerships. 

"Mr. Cunningham is an exceptional CTE leader who brings nearly two decades of technical expertise and a deep commitment to student success," said Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent of Waco ISD. "His track record of driving instructional excellence, bridging industry demands with technical education, and empowering faculty makes him the ideal fit to lead GWAMA as we prepare our students to become the next generation of industry leaders." 

Cunningham noted that he is thrilled to take on this leadership position at GWAMA, emphasizing his belief that "aligning high academic expectations with technical infrastructure transforms students into industry leaders". As Dean, he plans to utilize his administrative expertise to "empower faculty, elevate instructional strategies," and translate "real-world manufacturing, engineering, and workforce insights into actionable enhancements for program design". 

To share his vision and gather input, Cunningham will host a meet-and-greet event for staff, families and industry partners on July 30 at GWAMA, located at 2401 J J Flewellen Road in Waco, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 

Cunningham earned his Master of Education with a focus on Systematic Instruction and Curriculum Design from the University of Houston. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from BaylorUniversity. Cunningham began his new leadership role at GWAMA this summer.