LIBERTY HILL, Texas – The Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees was pleased to announce Luis 'Chico' Portillo as the new LHISD Fine Arts Director during the June 17, 2024 board meeting. Chico brings 15 years of dedicated school district leadership in fine arts from Pflugerville and Bastrop ISDs, where he fostered the development of highly successful fine arts programs across elementary, middle, and high school campuses. His leadership, characterized by proactive and servant leadership principles, emphasizes nurturing strong interpersonal relationships. Chico's desire to join Liberty Hill ISD stems from his commitment to contributing to a team dedicated to building excellence in district-wide fine arts programs.
“Mr. Portillo is the perfect addition to our team. He will be working directly with our fine arts teachers K-12 to ensure we have a comprehensive approach to supporting our students to become fine arts champions,” said Chief of Schools Travis Motal. “Liberty Hill ISD has great students and wonderful teachers, and with the addition of Mr. Portillo, this will enhance the learning experience for all of our students as they build the best version of themselves in academics, character and community.”
Before his district leadership roles, Chico was a teacher for 21 years, earning state-level recognition for his students in marching, solo and ensemble, concert and sight reading, and the TMEA All-State audition process. Under his direction, the John B. Connally High School marching band achieved significant milestones, including a bronze medal in 2003 and a silver medal 2007 at the Texas UIL state marching band competition. He has always loved school, learning, and helping others. "I am thrilled to be joining the LHISD family of educators! I look forward to serving the fine arts teachers, students, and the Liberty Hill community, and helping them reach new heights," said Portillo.
Chico grew up in El Paso and attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he met his wife, Reagan, who was from Austin. They have made Austin their home ever since. Reagan is an elementary school counselor at Mott Elementary School in Pflugerville ISD. His son, Daniel, is a mechanical engineer in San Antonio, and his daughter, Breanna, is an athletic trainer at John B. Connally High School in Pflugerville ISD. He also enjoys being a father-in-law to his daughter-in-law, Julie. Outside of work, Chico's hobbies include hiking, biking, golfing, college football and traveling.
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