Katie Kirkpatrick gives up her desk for Dartmouth’s Principal for a Day
In RISD’s education circles, Katie Kirkpatrick is known as professional, intelligent, dedicated and hard-working. Katie has risen quickly in the RISD ranks, serving as Assistant Principal at Big Springs Elementary and Arapaho Classical Magnet before taking the top job at Dartmouth and now Merriman Park.
Ask around LH about “Katie K” and you’ll hear her described as spirited, high-energy, creative and compassionate.
“It’s exciting to see one of Lake Highlands’ own return to such an important role,” said Susan Solomon, president of Lake Highlands Women’s League and long-time friend. “Katie and I worked together at LHE when she first started teaching, and my daughter, Beth, was in her first 5th grade class. I know she’ll do a great job.”
Katie grew up in LH (LHE, Northlake, LHJH, LHHS) and says “I know MPE is a great school with strong community support. I hear nothing but wonderful things about the awesome students, involved parents and incredible staff. I know it’s a school, like other LH-area schools, that is deeply rooted in tradition. I look forward to learning about and celebrating those traditions.”
Here’s the inside scoop on “All things Katie K” from Ms. Kirkpatrick herself:
Favorite childhood books:
Anne of Green Gables & Little Women
Favorite Movie:
So many, but a few include: The King’s Speech, Crazy Stupid Love, and I never pass up a classic from the 80’s.
Favorite sports team:
TCU Frogs!! (her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Education are from TCU) I’m obsessed with college football. I also enjoy going to Rangers’ games.
Favorite place to celebrate a birthday:
MiCo Lake Highlands is always a favorite…but nothing beats a home cooked meal, surrounded by family at Mom and Dad’s house!
Ever sent to the principal’s office as a kid?
No, I was quite the rule follower!
Message to MPE?
I am honored to have been named the new principal of MPE. It feels a bit like coming home. As a member of the LH community, I cannot wait to begin connecting and working with the Panther students and families in this new role. It’s going to be a great year!
