Southwood Valley elementary assistant principal Dawn Newton was selected to be the new principal at Rock Prairie elementary.
Newton, who spent the last five years at Southwood Valley as part of a 21 year career in CSISD, thanked her family and board members.
Newton also said “I’m just really excited to be at Rock Prairie, to join the Wrangler family, to love on those kids and support them as they grow. Although it’s a little bittersweet to leave my Southwood Valley family, I’m know that I’m ready to go.”
Click below to hear Dawn Newton’s comments at the May 27, 2025 College Station ISD school board meeting.
Newton takes over for Jeff Durand, who accepted a transfer to Pecan Trail intermediate as an assistant principal after receiving public support to remain at Rock Prairie.
News release from College Station ISD:
The College Station Board of Trustees unanimously approved Dawn Newton, assistant principal at Southwood Valley Elementary School, as the principal at Rock Prairie Elementary School during a special-called meeting on May 27.
Newton has 22 years of experience in education, 21 of which have been in CSISD. She began her career as a kindergarten teacher in Bryan ISD before joining CSISD, where she served in classroom teaching roles and as an instructional coach. In 2020, she was named assistant principal at Southwood Valley Elementary.
“Mrs. Newton is a passionate and experienced leader who is deeply committed to the success of all students,” said Dr. Tim Harkrider, superintendent of schools. “She has a strong instructional background, a collaborative leadership style, and a clear vision for creating positive and engaging learning environments. We are excited for her to lead the Rock Prairie team.”
Newton earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Texas A&M University and her master’s degree in educational leadership from Lamar University.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the Rock Prairie community,” said Newton. “I look forward to working alongside our staff and families to foster growth, learning, and success for every student.”