Sarah Flusche brings more than two decades of dedicated service to Goose Creek CISD, where she has consistently demonstrated a passion for literacy and student success. She began her career as an English Language Arts teacher and advanced into key leadership roles, including Instructional Specialist for ELA, Coordinator for ELA and Languages Other Than English, and Associate Director for ELA and Library Services. These roles have equipped her with a strong foundation in curriculum development, instructional support, and educational leadership.

A proud graduate of Goose Creek schools, Sarah’s educational journey is deeply rooted in the community she now serves. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Literature from the University of Houston-Clear Lake and a Master of Education in Administration from Lamar University, where she graduated with honors.

Originally from Arkansas, Sarah moved to Texas as a child and has called this area home ever since. Her personal experience as both a student and educator in Goose Creek inspires her continued commitment to ensuring every child has access to high-quality learning.

Outside of work, Sarah and her husband enjoy traveling. One of their goals is to visit all the major National Parks. So far, they have been to sixteen, and her dream is to one day see Acadia in the fall.

After more than three decades of dedicated service in Texas public education, Dr. Randal O’Brien, Superintendent of Goose Creek CISD, has announced his retirement. Dr. O’Brien has served Goose Creek CISD for 12 years, first as deputy superintendent in 2013 before becoming the district’s 15th superintendent in 2014. The Goose Creek CISD Board of Trustees formally accepted his retirement during the June 19th school board meeting.

“I am deeply grateful for the support shown to me and my family as we have worked hard over the past decade, or more, to ensure that every student is provided a high-quality education. Having been a student who could have easily fallen between the cracks myself, I have worked tirelessly to create pathways of success for all students,” said Dr. O’Brien.

Dr. O’Brien’s educational career includes roles as teacher, principal, district administrator, and superintendent across Texas, making Goose Creek his capstone to a celebrated career. He holds degrees in business management, educational administration, and a doctorate in educational leadership. Throughout his career, he has built a strong reputation for student-focused leadership and community collaboration.

Recognized as a Superintendent of the Year nominee in both Region 12 and Region 4, Dr. O’Brien has championed his belief that leadership matters by serving in numerous leadership development academies and mentoring young aspiring administrators. He has also served as an adjunct professor at the University of Houston–Clear Lake, helping to prepare the next generation of educational leaders.

Outside of education, Dr. O’Brien remains passionate about his role in community service through the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, and various other local service organizations in which he volunteers.

Under his leadership, Goose Creek CISD has made remarkable progress, including expanding Career and Technical Education programs, launching STEM and Early College initiatives, and enhancing local industry partnerships. Over his tenure, voters have approved over $600 million in school bond initiatives, which have provided new campuses, classroom expansions, safety upgrades, and district-wide technology improvements.

Also, during this time, the district has grown by nearly four thousand students and attained national recognition for its Career Academies, the implementation of AVID instructional practices, the innovative Early Childhood Learning Academies, and numerous athletic and fine arts advancement experiences for Goose Creek students.

Dr. O’Brien and his wife, Monica, also a retired educator, reside in Baytown and enjoy spending time with their family, including three adult children and three grandsons. As he steps away from his professional role this fall, he looks forward to devoting more time to his loved ones, traveling, enjoying outdoor recreation, and continuing to support public education in new ways.

“From early in my career, I knew my passion was creating opportunities for student success. My mother taught me that true leadership begins with integrity, and that, along with my faith, has guided my journey. I’ve been blessed with a supportive family, a visionary board, a brilliant executive team, devoted teachers, and a community that entrusted me with their most precious treasure: their children,” said Dr. O’Brien.

The Goose Creek CISD Board of Trustees will now begin the process of selecting the district’s next superintendent. Dr. O’Brien has committed to staying through the fall semester as this process is completed to ensure a smooth transition. The district is committed to keeping stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the process.

Heather Alarcon brings a strong background in education and leadership to her role as principal of Stephen F. Austin Elementary. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and her master’s degree from Lamar University, and she is currently pursuing a doctorate at the University of Houston–Clear Lake.

Mrs. Alarcon began her career in education as a classroom teacher at Pasadena ISD, where she served for six years. She joined Goose Creek CISD as an assistant principal, including one year at Austin Elementary, before transitioning to a district leadership role as Human Resources Coordinator.

Now returning to Austin Elementary, Mrs. Alarcon is eager to build strong partnerships with families, staff, and students to foster a positive, engaging, and high-achieving school environment. She and her husband, Adrian, live in Shoreacres with their two dogs, Juni B and Maggie. Together, they enjoy spending time outdoors and visiting Disney destinations.

“I'm honored and excited to return to Austin Elementary as principal and partner with our school community for a great year ahead.”

Originally from Puerto Rico, Ms. Celines Rivera brings more than two decades of dedicated service to the field of education. She began her career as a classroom teacher while earning her Bachelor's degree from National College University and later pursued a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Lamar University, an experience that deepened her commitment to purposeful, student-centered leadership.

Now in her 22nd year in education, Ms. Rivera has served in multiple roles, including Bilingual Teacher, Instructional Coach, Elementary Assistant Principal, and Elementary Principal. These diverse experiences have shaped her belief that education is not solely about instruction but building trust, fostering connections, and creating a supportive community where every child can succeed.

Her educational philosophy is grounded in character-building, kindness, and empathy. She believes that by nurturing these core values, schools can help students achieve academically while also helping them become compassionate, responsible individuals prepared to make a positive impact in the world.

Serving Alamo Elementary is a true privilege and fuels my passion for creating safe, inclusive spaces where all children thrive.

LaLynda Clements brings a strong educational foundation and a deep commitment to Goose Creek CISD to her role as principal of Liles Early Learning Academy. Throughout her career in the district, she has served in various roles, including kindergarten teacher, special education resource teacher, 504 coordinator, and assistant principal.


Ms. Clements’ connection to the Baytown community began in high school when her family moved to the area. As a proud graduate of Sterling High School and former Sterling Star, she looks back fondly on the school that became her second home. She went on to earn both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism and communication from Stephen F. Austin State University. She later completed a second master’s degree at Lamar University to pursue her passion for educational leadership.


Outside of work, Ms. Clements enjoys spending time with her daughter, Graycen—a University of Tennessee student and spirited SEC fan. Together, they make the most of summer and holiday vacations, with recent favorites including London and New York City.

“I’m honored to lead Liles Early Learning Academy, where joy, discovery, and growth guide our work and where every child is nurtured, inspired, and empowered to thrive.”

Alicia Brooks brings a wealth of experience, passion, and innovation to her role as Principal of the Peter E. Hyland Empower Academy. With a dynamic background in both classroom instruction and educational technology, Mrs. Brooks has served Goose Creek CISD in numerous capacities over the years, including Math and Computer Science Teacher, Basketball and Cheerleading Coach, OG sponsor of the Blarglefish Robotics Team, Educational Technology Specialist, Director of Information Services, and most recently, Principal of the GCCISD Virtual Academy.

Her leadership at the Virtual Academy demonstrated her commitment to reimagining education through flexible, student-centered learning environments, which aligns seamlessly with the Peter E. Hyland Empower Academy's mission.

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Mrs. Brooks was raised by two educators who instilled in her a lifelong love of learning and service. She attended college in Iowa, where she played basketball and earned a degree in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science. She began her teaching career at Hazelwood East High School before relocating to Baytown, Texas, after marrying her husband, who currently serves as Principal of Lee High School.

Together, they are proud parents of two children: Yasmine Brooks, a Sterling High School graduate and recent Kinesiology graduate from Texas Southern University, and Derrick Brooks, a current Sterling High School student.

Mark Gorena brings a deep commitment to student success, collaborative leadership, and community engagement to his new role as principal of San Jacinto Elementary. He began his career in public education in 2010 in Irving ISD and has served as an elementary teacher, instructional coach, and campus administrator.

He joined Goose Creek CISD in 2020 as assistant principal at Lamar Elementary and was later named principal, serving from 2023 to 2025. These experiences helped shape his leadership philosophy, which is grounded in equity, shared responsibility, and the belief that every child can succeed.

Mr. Gorena holds a bachelor’s degree from the Austin Graduate School of Theology. He previously attended the University of Texas at Austin and earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Lamar University in 2014. Prior to entering education, he served as a youth pastor for 20 years, a role that continues to influence his heart for service and mentorship.

He and his wife are proud empty nesters and lifelong advocates for public education. Mr. Gorena is excited to begin this new chapter at San Jacinto Elementary, guided by a quote that reflects his approach to leadership: “The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.” — Ralph Nader

"I’m excited for the journey ahead and grateful for the opportunity to serve the students, families, and staff of San Jacinto Elementary."

Luis Muñoz is a proud Goose Creek CISD graduate and dedicated educator with 19 years of experience in public education. He began his career in the district as a substitute teacher and has since served in various roles, including Bilingual Elementary Teacher at Carver Elementary, Family Involvement Coordinator and Assistant Principal at Ashbel Smith Elementary, Assistant Principal at Horace Mann Junior, and most recently, Principal at San Jacinto Elementary.

Mr. Muñoz brings a strong background in bilingual education, family engagement, and campus leadership. Throughout his career, he has worked collaboratively with teachers, families, and community partners to support student achievement and success.

A product of Goose Creek schools, Mr. Muñoz attended San Jacinto Elementary, Baytown Junior, and Ross S. Sterling High School. He began his higher education journey at Lee College before earning a bachelor’s degree in economics with a minor in government from the University of Texas at Austin. He later completed his master’s degree in educational leadership at the University of St. Thomas.

Deeply rooted in the Baytown community, Mr. Muñoz is committed to giving back to the district that shaped his own educational journey. With family still actively involved in GCCISD, including a nephew entering IMPACT Early College High School, his dedication to student growth and community partnership remains stronger than ever.

“We only have our students for three short years, so there's a real urgency to prepare them academically, socially, and emotionally for high school and beyond.”

Join us for the Sold on Goose Creek Realtor Breakfast and discover the educational opportunities our schools offer. Attendees will receive information to enhance the home buying experience in our community. Breakfast will be served.

Thursday, June 12

9 AM – 10:30 AM

"E.F." Green Junior School

5737 E. Wallisville Road, Baytown, TX 77521

Click here to RSVP