Jon Patrick named Cooper High School principal as Lyndsey Williamson moves to director role

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) — The Abilene Independent School District has named Jon Patrick as the next principal of Cooper High School, as current principal Lyndsey Williamson transitions into the role of Executive Director of Secondary Education.

According to AISD Communications, Patrick, who currently serves as principal at Clack Middle School, will begin transitioning into his new role immediately.

“Jon Patrick is a natural and goal-oriented leader with high expectations for student and staff success,” Superintendent Dr. John Kuhn said. “His proven track record of building positive relationships in schools will be a tremendous asset for the entire Cooper community. I look forward to supporting him as he leads Cooper into the future.”

Patrick’s career in education began in San Angelo as a teacher and coach. Over the years, he has served as a principal in five Texas school districts. He joined AISD in 2020 as an assistant principal at Abilene High School and the Woodson Center for Excellence before becoming principal at Clack Middle School.

“I am filled with excitement and anticipation about my new role leading Cooper High School. I look forward to joining a campus with a rich legacy of excellence and working alongside a dedicated community. We will build on that legacy while taking Cooper to new heights, academically and beyond,” said Patrick. “Reflecting on my time at Clack Middle School, I am deeply grateful to the entire Clack family for welcoming me with open arms. Together, we’ve made a lasting impact on the lives of our students.”

With more than 14 years of experience, a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Texas Permian Basin, and a bachelor’s degree from Angelo State University, Patrick is eager to serve the Cooper community.

Meanwhile, Williamson will step into her new role as executive director of secondary education, where she will oversee middle and high school curriculum while promoting high-quality instruction.

Williamson, who has spent 20 years in education—19 of them with Abilene ISD—became Cooper’s principal in 2019.

“I’m thankful for the six years I have spent as principal at Cooper High School, where I had the privilege of working with amazing educators, students, and families,” Williamson said. “There are so many exciting things happening in Abilene ISD, and I look forward to continuing to support our secondary students and campuses in this new capacity.”

A graduate of Angelo State University, Williamson holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees, along with a principal’s certification. She began her AISD career in 2005 as a math teacher at Mann Middle School and later served as a guidance counselor at Abilene High School for six years, principal of Holland Medical, and associate principal at Cooper High School.

“Lyndsey is a passionate leader with proven experience in secondary instruction and leadership,” Superintendent Dr. John Kuhn said. “I am confident she will ensure that our teachers will have the tools they need to be successful at the secondary level.”