Byron Nelson High School principal named Region 11 Outstanding Principal of the Year

The Texas Association of Secondary School Principals has named Byron Nelson High School Principal Kara Lea Deardorff as the Region 11 Outstanding Principal of the Year, the top honor in the area for her profession.

Each year, TASSP recognizes exceptional principals and assistant principals from school districts in each of the 20 education service center regions across Texas. Nominees are selected for their exemplary performance and leadership, with winners selected by their peers within each region.

“I am truly honored to receive this recognition,” Ms. Deardorff said. “The heart of my work has always been about serving students, and this award is a reflection of the incredible students, staff and community I get to work with every day.”

Ms. Deardorff has served the students and staff of Northwest ISD for 17 years, beginning her career in the district as an English teacher at Northwest High School in 2008. She later served as an instructional coach and assistant principal before moving to Byron Nelson High School, where she has served as associate principal and now principal.

“Northwest ISD is fortunate to have leaders like Kara Lea who always put students first,” said Superintendent Dr. Mark Foust. “Her dedication and hard work have truly earned her this recognition, and we are proud to see her honored.”

As the Region 11 winner, Ms. Deardorff now is eligible to compete for Texas Principal of the Year. State finalists will take part in a comprehensive interview process this November in Austin.