Leander ISD is pleased to welcome an established campus educator and leader, Stacy Steele Ed.D., as the new principal of River Place Elementary School. The Board of Trustees approved Steele’s hiring at Thursday night’s meeting.
“Dr. Steele brings extensive experience, a strong dedication to student learning and a clear vision for fostering an inclusive and supportive school environment,” said Leander ISD Superintendent Bruce Gearing, Ed.D. “Under her leadership, River Place is well-positioned to continue to thrive in innovative ways.”
Steele joins River Place Elementary after holding the position of dean of instruction at Vista Ridge High School since 2020. In that role, she provided instructional leadership through the implementation of the LISD Learning Model, directed the AVID program, and collaborated closely with campus leadership, counselors, and instructional coaches to strengthen student learning. She previously helped lead Vista Ridge as an assistant principal, gaining valuable experience in campus operations and student support.
While serving in Leander ISD at the secondary level, Steele was intentional about maintaining a strong connection with elementary campuses. As part of her professional development, she substituted for elementary administrators, shadowed campus leaders and actively participated in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). These experiences have well prepared her for success as an elementary campus leader.
“I look forward to partnering with our dedicated staff, amazing students and supportive families as we continue to make River Place an extraordinary place to learn and grow,” Steele said. “The Titan Family is filled with pride, excellence and a commitment to helping every student thrive. I am eager to build on this strong foundation by fostering a culture where every child feels valued, supported and inspired to reach their highest potential.”
In addition to providing campus leadership in LISD, Steele is a College Board coordinator and consultant and an AVID staff developer, roles in which she helps lead professional development for educators across the country.
Steele earned her Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of Texas at Austin. She went on to earn a Master of Education degree in educational administration and holds a Doctorate of Education in educational leadership and technology, both from Lamar University. Steele is also a graduate of Leander ISD’s Prospective Principal Program (P3).
