Cedar Hill welcomes new ISD superintendent Maria Gamel and Assistant Director of Public Works David Parnell

At the start of the July 22 briefing session City Manager introduced two new leaders: Dr. Maria Gamel, the newly appointed superintendent of Cedar Hill Independent School District, and David Parnell, who began July 1 as assistant director of public works.

The city manager said Dr. Gamel brings more than two decades of public-education leadership and a focus on equity and instructional leadership. In brief remarks to council and the audience, Dr. Maria Gamel said she was “humbled” and “honored to be here,” described herself as a parent and lifelong learner, and said she looks forward to partnering with Cedar Hill teachers, staff and residents. She invited the council and the public to a meet-and-greet on Thursday at the Jolyn Maddox Learning Center in High Point from 6 to 8 p.m.

The city manager introduced David Parnell, who retired after 22 years of active duty service in the U.S. Army and the Texas Army National Guard and began his municipal role on July 1. Parnell told the council he is “incredibly humbled” to serve the city and described his public‑administration training and commitment to service.

The city manager also introduced two visitors participating in the briefing: Amarachi Ahmadi, an intern from the University of Texas at Austin, and Wannima (Weneema) Martinez, assistant to the city manager for Mesquite, who was shadowing Cedar Hill staff. Council members welcomed the new superintendent and staff appointees and thanked them for attending.