Two new principals will serve Northwest ISD in the upcoming 2024-25 school year—Jennifer Putman at Curtis Elementary School and Stephen Garretson at Justin Elementary School.
The details
The news release states that Putman will join Northwest ISD after serving as principal of Janie Stark Elementary School in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD for the past five years. Putman’s previous experience in education includes:
- four years as an assistant principal in Grapevine-Colleyville ISD
- three years as an instructional coach in GCISD
- nine years as a teacher in both GCISD and Irving ISD
The news release states that during the past two years, Garretson has led Walnut Creek Elementary School in Azle ISD as its principal where he created several campus-wide initiatives including:
- Accountability measures
- Behavioral expectations
- Efficient arrival and dismissal processes
“I am honored to join the Legend family at Lizzie Curtis Elementary School," Putman said. "I'm eager to meet the students, staff and community of Curtis to build lasting relationships and work together to ensure each child achieves personal excellence."
“I’m eager to partner with the students, families and staff of Justin Elementary School to continue the tradition of excellence expected at this historic school,” Garretson said. “Justin is known for its engaged families and the amazing work of its staff, and together we will continue to provide the excellent educational environment our students experience every year.”
A closer look
According to the news release, Putman earned her master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Texas at Arlington and her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. In addition, she graduated from N2 Learning’s Principals’ Institute, and completed both the Harvard Graduate School’s School Turnaround Leaders and Deloitte University Leadership Center’s Courageous Principals Institute.
The news release states that Garretson earned his doctorate in child and family development from Texas Woman’s University. He earned a master’s degree in early childhood education and bachelor’s degree, both from Texas A&M University-Commerce.
