We are pleased to announce that Barry Bacom has been named assistant superintendent of the UT High School District, and Julie Joesel will serve as director of student services. Both bring decades of experience and a deep commitment to student success, equity and innovation. Learn more about their backgrounds and leadership journeys below.
Barry Bacom is an experienced educational leader with more than 20 years in public education, spanning classroom teaching, campus leadership and district administration. Since January 2024, he has served as director of state and federal programs at The University of Texas at Austin High School District, where he leads strategic efforts to improve student outcomes and ensure program compliance.
Bacom began his career as a high school social studies teacher and has held key roles including principal, director of curriculum and instruction, director of professional development, and director of career and technical education in districts across Texas and Massachusetts. His leadership has supported school redesigns, turnaround initiatives and data-driven improvement cycles. He is also a frequent presenter at national conferences such as SXSW EDU and the Southern Regional Education Board.
He holds a master’s degree in educational administration from UT Austin and a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Abilene Christian University. Bacom is currently pursuing a doctorate in the Cooperative Superintendency Program at UT Austin, preparing for executive leadership in education.
Julie Joesel joined the UT High School District in February 2025 as interim director of special services. A dedicated school psychologist, she brings more than 20 years of experience supporting students, families and educators in both traditional public and charter schools. Her work centers on promoting academic success, emotional well-being and equitable support for all learners.
In addition to her school-based roles, Joesel has partnered with the University of Texas at Austin’s School Psychology Program to mentor graduate students, helping them build practical skills and cultural competence to serve diverse communities.
Driven by a passion for advocacy and collaboration, Joesel is a strong voice for student-centered practices and inclusive education. She earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and a master’s degree in school psychology from Texas State University.