Killeen Principal’s “Mobile Desk” Earns Her Texas Principal of the Year Nod

We’ve always been told that children are the future, and while I believe that to be true, the reality is this: without great educators, it’s impossible. Keep in mind, your child spends at least eight hours a day, five days a week, with an educator — not including holidays. That means you must trust that the staff at your child's school is not only shaping them to be confident, intelligent, and full of integrity, but also helping them feel comfortable and excited about going to school.

How One Killeen Principal's Mobile Desk is Connecting Her With Students

Killeen principal Dr. Janelle Muhammad is definitely someone who comes to mind when I think of an educator who goes the extra mile for her students. Dr. Muhammad is the principal of Rancier Middle School. I honestly can’t remember a time when the community was this excited about having a new principal. Many weren't pleased with the previous principal's handling of certain situations or his lack of accountability. According to KCENT, Dr. Muhammad makes her way around the school each morning with her mobile desk, greeting students and ensuring they’re ready for the day. She calls her wheeled workstation her "second home," and she can be seen moving through the halls in it all day, every day.

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The Killeen Principal Who’s Always on the Move

Dr. Muhammad recently earned the well-deserved recognition of Region 12 Outstanding Principal of the Year in August. Personally, I think that title fits her perfectly. When my child attended middle school, unfortunately, he didn’t get to experience such an incredible principal. But every student who has known Dr. Muhammad has spoken highly of her. Her philosophy is simple: it centers around people during the day, and paperwork at night. She’s deeply involved in her students’ lives and loves to engage in conversation with them — something that is so important in a school environment. Muhammad shared, “The kids, mostly because they’re interesting. You just gotta meet them.” She added, “They will make you laugh. They are loving, and they are amazing.”Dr. Muhammad also said, “When I think of what I want to leave behind, I want to know that Rancier is one of the best middle schools in KISD.”

I think you're already on the right path, Dr. Muhammad — especially with the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals set to announce the Texas Principal of the Year winner this November. Fingers crossed you’re the winner!