Maggie Jistel, an established leader within Leander ISD, has been named the next principal of Cedar Park Middle School. The Board of Trustees approved her hiring at Thursday night’s meeting. 

Superintendent Bruce Gearing, Ed.D., expressed excitement for Jistel’s new role as principal. 

“Principal Jistel brings a student-centered, relationship-driven approach that aligns with the values of the CPMS community,” Gearing said. “Her engaging and visible leadership style will build upon the strong foundation established within the Cedar Park feeder pattern, further advancing the tradition of excellence that has made a lasting impact on the campus. I am confident that under Principal Jistel’s leadership, CPMS will continue to flourish—empowering students to grow, excel, and lead with purpose.”

Jistel most recently served as principal of Cypress Elementary, a position she has held since 2022. There, she led the campus instructional vision with a focus on inquiry-based learning, goal setting, and fostering student ownership. She developed systems that empowered staff and created a culture centered on student growth and voice.

Before serving as principal of Cypress Elementary, Jistel was the assistant principal at Parkside and Laura Welch Bush elementary schools. She also served as an instructional coach for five years at Bush Elementary, where she began her career in Leander ISD as a teacher. She began her journey as an educator in Amarillo ISD in 2005. 

“It is a privilege to begin this new chapter and continue serving the Cedar Park community I love,” Jistel said of her new role. “I am excited to partner with students, staff, and families to spark joyful learning, build strong connections, and dream big as we continue to grow together.”

Jistel attended West Texas A&M University for her undergraduate degree, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. She completed her Master of Education at Concordia University.

To ensure a smooth transition into the 2025-26 school year, an interim principal will be named for Cypress Elementary and the search will begin for a new principal once school begins. Finding the next leader for Cypress Elementary is critical, and members of the school community will be invited to share their thoughts and expectations for its new principal. More information will be shared with Cypress families directly.