Plano ISD is proud to announce the appointment of four new principals for the upcoming school year, bringing a wealth of experience, passion and leadership to their respective campuses. These dedicated educators are poised to support student success and continue the district's mission of providing high-quality education.

Jean Laswell – Principal, Plano ISD Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center

Plano ISD Career & Technical Education Center Principal Jean Laswell at the April 22 board meeting

Jean Laswell has been appointed as the inaugural principal of the brand-new Plano ISD Career and Technical Education Center. Jean holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Texas A&M University-Commerce and a Master of Arts in Career and Technical Education from Ball State University.

Jean began her teaching career in computer science, accounting, business, marketing and engineering before transitioning into administration. For the past 14 years, she has served as both an assistant principal and principal at CTE centers in two different school districts. Her experience includes designing facilities, building programs from the ground up and fostering strong community and business partnerships. Her proven track record in CTE education makes her the ideal leader for this new and exciting venture in Plano ISD

Dr. Josh Howard – Principal, Academy High School

Academy High School Principal Dr. Josh Howard at the April 22 board meeting

Dr. Josh Howard has been appointed as the new principal of Academy High School. With a diverse background in engineering and education, Josh brings a unique perspective to leadership. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from Midwestern State University, a master’s degree in Administrative Management from the University of North Texas, and most recently, a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy from Texas Tech University.

Dr. Howard transitioned from a successful engineering career into education, where he taught math and computer science for eight years. He later served as an assistant principal at both middle and high schools, and for the past two years, he has led the district’s Career and Technical Education department, launching innovative STEM and robotics programs.

Andy Jacob – Principal, Shepton High School

Shepton High School Principal Andy Jacob at the April 22 board meeting

Plano ISD is excited to appoint longtime educator Andy Jacob as the new principal of Shepton High School. Andy earned his bachelor’s degree in Social Science Education from Northwestern University and a master’s degree in Education from Lamar University.

Andy has devoted his entire career to Plano ISD, beginning as a teacher at the Larry Guinn Special Programs Center. He later served as administrative intern at Shepton High School before taking on roles at Plano Senior High School, where he spent 11 years as assistant principal and associate principal of student activities. Most recently, he has supported the district as the coordinator of employee relations in Human Resources.

Kassandra Duncan – Principal, Hendrick Middle School

Hendrick Middle School Principal Kassandra Duncan at the April 22 board meeting

Plano ISD is pleased to recommend Kassandra Duncan as the new principal of Hendrick Middle School. With a career spanning more than two decades in education, Kassandra brings a deep commitment to student growth and teacher support. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences Education from Illinois State University, a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Bradley University and a second master’s degree in Educational Administration from St. Xavier University.

Kassandra began her career as a middle school social studies teacher and has served at all grade levels during her 12 years in the classroom. For the past 11 years, she has worked as an assistant principal at both the middle and high school levels, most recently at Rice Middle School. Her leadership style emphasizes building strong relationships, fostering positive school culture, and implementing systems that empower every student to succeed.