There’s something comforting about seeing familiar faces in the hallway.
A teacher who remembers your child’s name from last year. A principal who already knows the rhythm of a campus morning. An assistant principal who’s stood in the pickup line, cheered at assemblies, and celebrated the little victories that matter most to kids.
This fall, Wylie ISD families will see several leadership transitions across campuses, but district leaders say the heart behind each move is simple: placing caring, trusted educators where they can best serve students and families.
And perhaps the most reassuring part? Every transition comes with deep roots in the Wylie community.
Liz Carey Returns as a Familiar Face at Wylie West Elementary
For Liz Carey, stepping into the principal role at Wylie West Elementary is a return to a campus and community she already knows well.
Carey previously served as assistant principal at Wylie West Elementary alongside longtime Principal Lisa Bessent, who is retiring after years of dedicated service to Wylie students and families. During that time, Carey built strong relationships with students, staff, and parents, making her a familiar and trusted face for the Wylie West community.
“Wylie West has always felt like home to me,” Carey shared. “I’m excited to reconnect with students, staff, and families and continue building relationships in a community that means so much to me. Students and relationships will always remain the priority, and I’m committed to helping every child feel supported, known, and loved.”
As Wylie West begins this next chapter, Carey said she is grateful for the opportunity to continue the strong campus culture already in place - one built on relationships, belonging, and community.
A Familiar Face for Future Fourth Graders
At Wylie East Intermediate, students entering fourth grade this fall will be greeted by someone many already know well.
Hillary Hernandez, currently assistant principal at Wylie East Elementary, has been named the next principal of Wylie East Intermediate. For many third graders moving to the campus next year, Hernandez won’t be a new face at all. She’s already spent time building relationships with students and families at East Elementary this year.
“I am excited to continue working with many of the third graders I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know,” Hernandez said. “I look forward to watching them grow, lead, and succeed at WEI.”
Hernandez says education has always been about people for her - students, staff, and families alike.
“I believe in advocating for students, supporting teachers, and partnering with families,” she shared. “I value teamwork and open communication as we work together to help students succeed.”
And her connection to WEI is personal, too.
Not only will Hernandez soon lead the campus, but before long, her own child will be walking those same intermediate hallways as a student themself. That connection, district leaders say, is part of what makes Wylie special - leaders who aren’t just invested professionally, but personally.
“Wylie is home for me and my family,” Hernandez said. “I am honored to continue serving this community and excited to help build something special together at WEI.”
Carey also expressed confidence in Hernandez’s leadership and the future of WEI.
“Mrs. Hernandez brings strong leadership, great relationships, and a true passion for students and staff,” Carey said. “WEI is gaining a leader who genuinely cares about people and campus culture.”
Welcoming a New Bulldog to Wylie East Elementary
As Hernandez moves to WEI, Wylie ISD will welcome Ashley Carthel as the new assistant principal at Wylie East Elementary.
Though new to the district, Carthel says Wylie has felt familiar long before she officially joined the Bulldog family. Her mother is a proud Wylie alumna, and growing up hearing stories about the district made the decision to come to Wylie an easy one.
“What drew me to Wylie ISD is the strong sense of community and excellence that I’ve heard about my entire life,” Carthel said.
Carthel describes her leadership style as relational and servant-minded, with a focus on visibility, encouragement, and building strong relationships with students, staff, and families.
She and her husband, Tyson - also an educator joining Wylie ISD - are excited to raise their three children in the Wylie community.
“My family is excited to proudly wear Purple and Gold and look forward to the relationships and memories this new journey will bring,” Carthel shared.
Building on What Makes Wylie Special
Superintendent Joey Light said the transitions reflect the district’s continued focus on relationships, leadership development, and putting students first.
“These moves are about continuing strong campus cultures and placing trusted leaders where they can best serve students and families,” Light said. “Each of these leaders brings heart, experience, and a genuine commitment to the Wylie community.”
In many ways, the story of these transitions is really the story of Wylie itself - relationships that last, leaders who grow from within, and a community that continues to invest in its students one hallway, one classroom, and one familiar face at a time.
Because around Wylie ISD, it’s never just about changing positions.
It’s about continuing to care for kids well.
And that’s why it’s great to be a Wylie Bulldog.