Liberty Hill, TX — Liberty Hill Independent School District is excited to announce that the Board of Trustees has unanimously appointed Tarah Staton as the new Principal of Rancho Sienna Elementary.

With extensive experience in both secondary education and leadership, Staton brings a proven record of instructional excellence and campus culture development. She most recently served as principal of Florence Middle School (Florence ISD), a role she's held since June 2023. Previously, she was assistant principal at both McNeil High School in Round Rock ISD and Wagner Middle School in Georgetown ISD. Additionally, Staton started her career in education in the state of Washington where she taught English Language Arts and social studies for over 11 years, and upon moving to Texas, she has served as an adjunct professor at Southwestern University and taught at Liberty Hill High School, demonstrating her long-standing ties to the community.

Throughout her career, Staton has led the development and implementation of comprehensive systems for instruction, intervention, and data tracking. She has designed effective professional learning communities (PLCs), facilitated campus learning walks, and used instructional data to inform and improve professional development. Staton has also overseen campus improvement planning, worked to align instructional goals across grade levels, and introduced new elective offerings to meet student interests. Known for her strong leadership in culture-building, she has championed Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) frameworks, established safety and threat assessment protocols, and created programs to support both student growth and teacher mentorship. Her leadership consistently reflects a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and excellence in education.

“I am fired up to be a Wrangler and bring my experience and leadership to Rancho Sienna,” said Staton. “I look forward to collaborating with the incredible staff and families to build on the campus’s strong foundation and cultivate a champion mentality—where every Rancho student is challenged to meet and exceed their potential in academics and in character. Wreck ‘Em!”

Staton earned a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education with certifications in Social Studies and English Language Arts, a Master’s in Education Administration, and holds a Texas Principal Certification. She also achieved National Board Certification in English Language Arts. 

Her husband Chris works in finance and together they have two children, Karlee, who is an eighth grader at Santa Rita Middle School, and KJ who is a fifth grader at Rancho Sienna Elementary School. 

Welcome to the LHISD and Rancho Sienna Elementary family, Principal Staton!