Board welcomes Dr. Stephanie Dominique and Mrs. Natalie Barrett to key district roles for the 2025–2026 school year
HUNTSVILLE, TX – Huntsville Independent School District is welcoming two accomplished leaders into key positions for the 2025–2026 school year. During the regular board meeting on June 17, 2025, the Huntsville ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved the hiring of Mrs. Natalie Barrett as Principal of Huntsville Elementary School and Dr. Stephanie Dominique as the new Director of Special Education.
A Homecoming for New Elementary Principal
Mrs. Natalie Barrett will assume the role of Principal at Huntsville Elementary School, returning to the district where her educational career began more than two decades ago. Barrett, a certified Texas school principal with over 25 years in public education, previously served as a 6th and 7th grade math teacher in Huntsville ISD. Since then, she has held leadership roles in Trinity ISD, including Principal, Director of Curriculum & Instruction, and most recently, Assistant Principal for Curriculum & Instruction at Lansberry Elementary.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mrs. Barrett back to Huntsville ISD,” said Superintendent Dr. Scott Sheppard. “Her deep knowledge of instruction, collaborative leadership, and commitment to student achievement make her the right choice for Huntsville Elementary.”
Barrett earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Education in Educational Administration from Sam Houston State University. In her previous roles, she was responsible for initiatives including professional development, assessment coordination, and instructional coaching.
“I am honored and excited to return to Huntsville ISD,” said Mrs. Barrett. “Huntsville Elementary holds a special place in my heart, and I look forward to partnering with our staff, families, and community to support the success of every student.”
She will begin her new role in July 2025, following the resignation of former principal Roger McNeel, who accepted a position in another district.
Advancing Special Education with Visionary Leadership
Also approved at the June 17 meeting was the appointment of Dr. Stephanie Dominique as the new Director of Special Education for HISD. She replaces Mrs. Ashley Kimich, who resigned to pursue other endeavors.
Dr. Dominique brings a wealth of experience in special education and has recently served as the Statewide Special Education & Federal Programs Administrator for the Windham School District within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. In this role, she managed special education programming and federal grants across the state. She also previously worked as a Special Education Specialist for the Education Service Center Region 6 and is familiar with Huntsville ISD, having once served as the District Transition Coordinator.
"Dr. Dominique brings extensive knowledge and expertise to the Director of Special Education role,” said Chief Academic Officer Marcus Forney. “Her unique background encompasses quality campus administrative experience, central office leadership, as well as regional and even state-level expertise, providing her with a comprehensive perspective that will greatly benefit our special education programs."
Dr. Dominique is known for fostering collaboration among educators, families, and support staff, and for leading professional development initiatives that improve regulatory compliance and educational outcomes. She will also begin her new role in July 2025.
Strengthening the District’s Future
With both appointments, Huntsville ISD signals its continued commitment to academic excellence and inclusive student support. These strategic leadership hires bring experienced, mission-driven professionals into roles vital to student growth and achievement.