University Park Elementary is “Paws”itively Awesome!
University Park Elementary School, or UP as it’s fondly referred to, boasts a 80 year tradition of excellence in educating entire families residing in the Highland Park Independent School District. One could easily travel far and wide in the great state of Texas and never find more wonderful children, dedicated teachers, or committed, supportive parents. It is with great pleasure I serve as the principal of this eager Community of Learners.
Personally, I take pride in being a lifelong learner, teacher and school leader. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree from Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas; a Master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University; and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Texas at Austin. Go Horns! Besides my teaching credentials, I have earned Mid-Management, Supervision, and Superintendent’s certifications. My certifications and training include numerous hours in instructional leadership development, curriculum and instruction, gifted education, literacy and instructional supervision.
Through my experiences and training in Baldrige Quality Principles, I have gained a great deal of insight into how to create and sustain a high performing, professional learning community. Although my career as a public educator spans more than 30 years, I have been a principal for more than 23 years. I love being a principal! As a result, my passion has been spending time preparing children for success in the future—a place where they will live their lives! My commitment to Texas children and Texas Public Schools runs deep. As a Past-President of the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA), I value working with colleagues across the state.
My husband and I have 5 children and eight grandchildren. Bob, a retired public school educator and former principal, is a career and life coach for practicing school administrators across the nation. We are both committed to supporting strong public school education programs for Texas children. After all, our grandchildren attend or will attend Texas Public Schools.
When you enter the front doors, you will feel the excitement of UP! This school has been designated a T.E.A. exemplary campus for the past fourteen years. We were designated a Texas Business Education Coalition (TBEC) Honor Roll School in 2001, 2005, 2006, and 2007. This means our performance clearly puts us in the top 5% of Texas Public Schools. We also enjoyed the distinction of being a Texas and U.S. Department of Education NCLB-National Blue Ribbon School in 2006. This places University Park in the top 10% of schools in the nation.
Our theme this year is, “Partner UP for a Bright Future.” This theme perfectly reflects the powerful partnership existing between our school staff and the children and families we serve. Please take advantage of the many opportunities available to you to "Partner UP" with your school. It is often said, "In the lives of the parents and teachers who raise them, children see reflections of themselves."
See you at school.
Dr. Carter