Stephanie Lugo, proud principal of McGowen Elementary School, was one of the first principals to acclimate a campus into HISD’s New Education System (NES). The undeniable progress of her students and staff is what makes her this week’s HISD Star Educator.

Lugo began her career with HISD teaching at Lewis Elementary and was soon promoted to teacher specialist, where she was instrumental in the school’s rise out of Improvement Required status. She went on to serve as a teacher specialist and GT coordinator at West University Elementary, then ascended to administration as assistant principal of Twain Elementary. 

During her time as principal of McGowen, Lugo’s positivity-based leadership style, coupled with the support and hard work of her dedicated staff, was the driving force behind improvement in student outcomes during McGowen’s first year under NES. 

Learn more about Principal Lugo’s time at McGowen and hear from Chelsey Pierre, one of McGowen’s dedicated teachers, below:

Favorite subject in school: Reading and Science

Favorite book: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Favorite thing about Houston: Diversity!

Goal for your students and staff this upcoming school year: Increase student achievement while connecting with the community