Top 10 School Principals In Texas - 2026

Sherree Johnson serves as Principal of Griggs Primary School in Aldine ISD on the north side of Houston. Leading approximately 780 Pre-K and kindergarten students, she focuses on creating a culture of high expectations, strong relationships, and community partnership. Working in a community where most students qualify for free or reduced lunch, Johnson is committed to ensuring that circumstances outside the school never define opportunities within it. Her leadership emphasizes excellence in early childhood, teacher development, social-emotional learning, and data-informed instruction.

Danielle Andries is a High School Principal at Trinity Independent School District, bringing experience in school leadership, instructional technology and educator development. Previously a principal at Shepherd ISD, she has also worked with Region 6 Education Service Center, supporting professional development, instructional improvement and educational data analysis.

Zi Ussery is Principal of YES Prep Northline Secondary in Houston, an A-rated campus recognized among U.S. News & World Report’s Best High Schools. Her leadership focuses on academic excellence, teacher development and educational equity, creating a supportive learning environment where students can thrive.

Viviane Castillo-Manzano is Assistant Principal of Instruction at IDEA Public Schools and founder of BranchPoint College Strategy, with over 20 years of experience in education. A former school principal and college counselor, she focuses on strengthening classroom instruction, developing teachers and helping students and families navigate college planning with confidence.

Claudia Kongamnach is Principal at Harmony School of Innovation, bringing 20 years of experience with Harmony Public Schools. Having progressed from classroom teacher to assistant principal and principal, she has worked across elementary, middle and high school education, developing extensive experience in instructional leadership and school administration.

With more than 25 years in education, Dr. Patrick L. McMillan serves as Principal of Richard Milburn Academy–Pasadena and Visiting Professor at Chamberlain University. His school improvement initiatives have delivered double-digit gains in multiple state-tested subjects. He also develops leadership frameworks that help educators translate research into better classroom practices.

Jane Apodaca serves as School Principal at Killeen ISD, overseeing approximately 1,000 students and 120 staff members. Before entering education, she spent 16 years in human resources administration. A former Texas Region 12 Elementary Teacher of the Year, she brings experience in instructional leadership, staff development and school operations.

Crystal Green is a school principal at Arlington Independent School District in Texas. Based in Arlington, she is part of the district’s educational leadership team. She attended the University of Texas at Arlington, and her professional background includes school administration within the public education system.

With over 25 years in public education, Marcy Auchter Walters leads Victory Place at Coppell High School as Principal. She emphasizes individualized instruction, mentorship and strong student-teacher relationships. Her approach combines data-informed teaching with empathy, restorative practices and character development to create a supportive learning environment.

Chastity Caesar is Executive Director of School Improvement at Education Partners, with over 20 years of experience in education. A certified Texas administrator and professional development trainer, she works with school principals and educators to strengthen instructional practices, develop leadership skills and implement school improvement strategies that support student achievement.