Austin, TX—Tonight, Austin Independent School District's Board of Trustees approved the appointment of Mel Waxler as the new chief of staff, effective July 1. Waxler has held the position of general counsel for AISD since 2000. Waxler created the first in-house, legal department for the district, which reduced the legal expense budget by $1.6 million during the first three years. Previously, Waxler served as founder and principal of MpoWer, CEO at Wright and Greenhill, P.C., and legal counsel for the Texas Railroad Commission.

"Mel Waxler has been a tremendous asset to AISD for more than a decade. He brings a strong range of experience to his newest role," Superintendent Meria Carstarphen said. "He has been a credit to the district in his efforts to support public education and expand relationships with local, state and federal entities."

As chief of staff, Waxler will support the office of the superintendent, including providing legal advice to the administration and schools. In addition, Waxler will oversee the district's innovation and development, public relations and multicultural outreach, intergovernmental policy and oversight, and bullying prevention teams.

Waxler received his superintendent certification from the Texas Education Agency in 2009. In May, he earned a master's degree in education from the University of Texas at Austin. Waxler also has a law degree and master's degree in public affairs from the University of Texas at Austin.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the district in an expanded role," Waxler said. "I look forward to working closer with the district's administration as we continue preparing students to be college and career ready."