Pearland ISD Announces Key Leadership Appointments

Pearland Independent School District announced the appointment of four leaders to key positions for the upcoming school year. Indira Ramirez has been named the Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Amanda Gordon will step into the role of Director of Instruction and Professional Learning, Jennifer Byrne will serve as the Director of Special Programs and Rebecca Dietz has been named principal of Jamison Middle School.

These leadership additions underscore Pearland ISD’s ongoing commitment to building strong instructional systems, fostering professional growth for educators, and ensuring high-quality outcomes for all students.

 

Indira Ramirez – Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Indira Ramirez, an experienced and dedicated educator will step into this vital role to oversee the alignment, development, and execution of Pearland ISD’s academic framework. Ramirez will lead the strategic direction of educational programs, focusing on curriculum implementation, classroom instructional support, and districtwide professional learning systems.

During her seven-year tenure with Pearland ISD, Ramirez has served as a Multilingual Specialist and, most recently, as the Coordinator of Instruction and Professional Learning where she successfully built and expanded the district’s instructional coaching program. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Bilingual Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston and a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of St. Thomas.

"My goal is to continue building strong instructional systems that support teachers, develop leaders, and ensure all students have access to high-quality curriculum and instruction," Ramirez said. "I am committed to advancing student equity, strengthening districtwide systems, and continuing to Build Pearland Proud."

 

Amanda Gordon – Director of Instruction and Professional Learning

Joining the Curriculum & Instruction team, Amanda Gordon will design, implement, and oversee the district’s instructional coaching framework and professional development initiatives. Gordon transitions to this role after a five-year tenure as Principal of Jamison Middle School, where she was recognized as the 2024–25 Principal of the Year for her commitment to student achievement, instructional excellence, and campus leadership.

Gordon brings extensive experience in instructional coaching, educator development, and school leadership. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from Southwestern University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Houston-Downtown, and a Principal Certificate from Lamar University. Since beginning her career in education, she has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles, including teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal.

“I am focused on ensuring that every educator has the support, resources, and growth opportunities needed to maximize student success,” Gordon said. “I look forward to partnering with teachers and leaders across the district to strengthen instructional practices and create a culture of continuous improvement that drives excellence in teaching and learning.”

 

Jennifer Byrne – Director of Special Programs

Bringing more than two decades of dedicated experience in special education leadership, Jennifer Byrne will join the district to support the Executive Director of Special Programs and campus leadership teams. In this role, Byrne will focus on advancing services, enhancing inclusive practices, and improving achievement outcomes for students with diverse learning needs.

Byrne holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A&M University and a Master of Arts in Behavioral Science for School Psychology. She began her career as a special education teacher before spending years as a School Psychologist and Coordinator of Evaluation and Support Services in Pasadena ISD. For the past decade, she has excelled in leadership roles at Fort Bend ISD, serving as Program Manager of Evaluation and Assistant Director of Special Education.

"My goals are to enhance inclusive practices, increase engagement for families and the community and provide innovative professional development that empowers our educators with cutting-edge instructional and behavioral strategies," Byrne said.

Byrne is married and the proud parent of two children who will be entering middle school and high school. She is an avid sports fan who loves traveling and spending quality time with family and friends.

 

Rebecca Dietz – Jamison Middle School Principal

A veteran educator with more than 15 years of experience, Dietz steps into the role with a proven track record of campus leadership, a deep commitment to student success, and a passion for fostering collaborative school cultures.

An experienced leader in middle school education, Dietz spent the last five years serving as the Principal of Carter Lomax Middle School. She began her career as a sixth-grade science teacher in Pasadena ISD before transitioning into campus leadership as a founding Assistant Principal at Fred Roberts Middle School. Throughout her career, she has focused on building strong systems, supporting teachers, and mentoring future leaders. Dietz’s academic and professional credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Stephen F. Austin State University and a Master of Education in Administration from Concordia University.

As both a Pearland resident and a district parent, Dietz’s investment in the community is deeply personal. She lives in Pearland with her husband, Ryan, and their two sons, who attend Alexander Middle School and Pearland Junior High East. This dual perspective fuels her dedication to building strong school-family partnerships.

"I am honored to serve the students, staff, and families of Sam Jamison Middle School," Dietz said. "My vision is rooted in authentic relationships, authentic learning experiences, and a commitment to excellence. I want every Jaguar to feel a sense of belonging and know they are supported by adults who truly care about their success."