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MEET OUR NEW PRINCIPAL, DR. PAULA KENT!

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Dr. Paula Kent Named Principal of McKinney High School

When Kent began her journey as an educator in 1992, she was perfectly happy with her life as a science teacher in minuscule Texas towns such as Roxton, Leonard and Chester. But, 18 years into her career, she moved to McKinney North High School and soon found herself as the science department chair and instructional coach. And, she loved it.

Over the next few years, she became an assistant principal at North and then director of curriculum at Central Office. In 2016, Kent became North’s associate principal and served in that position for 5 years. When a new leadership opportunity arose last year, she became principal of Evans Middle School. Now, she takes an even bigger step in her journey as a campus leader.

“Paula is going to be outstanding at MHS,” said Deputy Superintendent of Secondary Student Support Dr. Melinda DeFelice. “She brings a wealth of high school experience and is amazing with curriculum. She is committed to taking care of the staff and students for many years to come.”

Among her many contributions, Kent has been a curriculum writer for the district, a mentor to secondary science teachers, a member of the McKinney Innovation Team and the Region X Education Service Center’s Assistant Principal Leadership Network as well as a board member and coordinator for the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals. In 2021, she was named the Region X Assistant Principal of the Year by TASSP.

“While I am sad to leave my Evans family, I know that the relationships that were built there will last a lifetime,” said Kent. “I am honored to serve as the new principal of McKinney High School, and I cannot wait to get to know my new Lions family and work alongside you as we continue the long tradition of excellence that is MHS!”

Kent earned her bachelor’s degree in broad-field science from East Texas State University, her master’s degree in biology and natural science from Stephen F. Austin State University and her doctorate in educational leadership from the University of North Texas.