Leander ISD Superintendent Bret Champion announced his selection of Susan Cole as principal of Middle School #8, which is scheduled to open in the fall of 2012.

“Throughout her career in LISD, Susan has shown an impressive dedication to education and a deep passion for student learning. As a proven leader, I believe Susan possesses the character and skills necessary to ensure that Middle School #8 will open with a solid instructional foundation,” says Champion. “Susan values collaboration, whether it’s with parents, teachers or community members, and will use those interactions to create a positive, collaborative culture, with a constant focus on student learning.”

Cole has served as principal of Giddens Elementary for the last six years and will remain at Giddens until a new principal is named later this spring. The move comes after 22 years of experience in education, with the past 16 years in LISD. Prior to taking her position at Giddens, Cole taught at Cedar Park Middle School and served as assistant principal at Running Brushy Middle School and Leander High School.

Cole earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Sam Houston State University, a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Texas A&M University and an educational administration certificate from Southwest Texas State University.