The Texas Association of Secondary School Principals (TASSP) has named Dr. Janelle Muhammad, Principal of Rancier Middle School in Killeen Independent School District, as the Region 12 Outstanding Principal of the Year. TASSP recognizes outstanding principals and assistant principals from the twenty Education Service Center regions across Texas. School administrators are nominated and chosen by their peers within their regions based on exemplary performance and exceptional leadership.
As the Region 12 winner, Dr. Muhammad is now eligible to compete for the state title of Texas Principal of the Year.
Dr. Muhammad, finishing her second year as principal, has led the Rancier Middle School campus since 2023. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University–Central Texas and her Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the same institution. She went on to earn her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Concordia University, Portland.
Known as a risk taker, visionary, and leader of learners, Dr. Muhammad is credited with numerous achievements, including leading a campus-wide academic turnaround initiative, implementing a phone-free learning environment through the Yondr pouch program, fostering a “Stronger Together” school culture, and significantly increasing family and community engagement.
“Being recognized by my peers is an incredible honor, but the real reward is seeing our students grow in confidence, character, and achievement,” Dr. Muhammad said. “This award reflects the hard work of our teachers, staff, and families who believe in what’s possible for our children. At Rancier Middle School, we truly are stronger together.”
Each of the region winners will be recognized during the Jostens Night of the Stars Awards Dinner, held in conjunction with the TASSP Summer Workshop in June 2026.
Honorees will receive a commemorative award and be featured in the Summer Workshop yearbook.