News
Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association
Serving Texas School Leaders Since 1917 | August 2025
Vol. 82, No. 4 | www.tepsa.org
Coppell ISD Educator Named NAESP National Distinguished Principal of the Year for Texas Coppell ISD Principal Dr. Andra Penny is the 2025 NAESP National Distinguished Principal for Texas. During her 30-year tenure at Cottonwood Creek Elementary, she has created a vibrant learning community that values relationships, creativity and critical thinking. Dr. Penny’s optimism and joy of learning are hallmarks of her leadership at Cottonwood Creek Elementary. The school’s positive climate has resulted in strong academic performance, social-emotional well-being, and high teacher retention. The campus is a model of academic excellence, fostering joyful and collaborative learning. In addition to a rigorous curriculum, students are provided opportunities to ignite
their passions, explore issues in their community, and make a positive impact. Programs such as the weekly Genius Hour have not only improved student engagement but also inspired a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom. During Genius Hour, students from kindergarten through fifth grade lead their own learning, attending sessions of their choosing such as dance, broadcasting, karate, gardening, and other topics of interest. Many of the opportunities explored during Genius Hour have led to schoolwide ) page 4
Board of Directors to Consider Region Bylaws Changes Last year, TEPSA launched a new program to enhance support for our volunteer leaders. The Leadership U Region Leader Training, held each June in conjunction with the TEPSA Summer Conference, was updated, and monthly workshops were implemented to provide region leaders time to connect with other volunteers, ask questions, and benefit from additional professional development opportunities. While feedback to the new program has been positive, additional clarification has been requested regarding the region leaders’ responsibilities in those roles across the state.
changes, then TEPSA members will be asked to vote on those changes in October. TEPSA members have two volunteer options for serving as a leader in their area:
In September, the Board of Directors will vote on proposed changes to the Region Bylaws that are designed to standardize and clarify these volunteer positions. If the Board approves the recommended
1. TEPSA Standing Committees – Nominations are accepted each year, and appointments are made based on demographics and representation across the state. Standing Committees are approved by the Board of Directors each June. These volunteer leaders serve as members of their region leadership team. 2. Region Leaders – Elected at the local level, these active TEPSA members support school leaders in their region by planning local meetups, sharing information, and recruiting TEPSA members. ) page 15
INSIDE THIS ISSUE President's Column by Dana Harley Boyd................................3 Building a Stronger School Community: Using Icebreakers to Launch the Year Right by Amy Bay...............................................7 10 Tips to Minimize Your Liability by Kevin Lungwitz..............12
Laying the Foundation: Strategic Practices That Strengthen School Leadership by Cindy Tierney..................................................14 It All Starts with You: The Power of Communication, Connection and Culture by Todd Nesloney and Ross Braun......................16