The Texas Association of Secondary School Principals (TASSP) recognizes outstanding principals and assistant principals from the 20 regions across Texas through its annual Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year awards. Selected from among the finalists, Elisha Reese was named the TASSP Overall High School Assistant Principal of the Year for her exemplary performance and outstanding leadership. She is now in consideration for the National High School Assistant Principal of the Year award.

After spending her entire educational career at Frenship, Reese said the recognition is both humbling and an opportunity to represent the educators who have shaped her along the way.

“Honestly, I am still trying to wrap my head around it! When I received the phone call, I think I was more in shock than anything. It is incredibly humbling and still feels a little surreal,” Reese said. “To be recognized at the state level is something I never imagined, and to now have the opportunity to represent Texas at the national level is truly an honor. I am so grateful, but I also know that I didn't get here by myself. I've been blessed to work with some pretty incredible people who have helped shape me into the educator and leader I am today.” 

Reese began her career at Frenship in 2003 as a classroom teacher and has served in several roles throughout the District. Her experience in the classroom, instructional technology, and campus administration has helped shape her approach to leadership and student success. 

“I always joke that Frenship raised me, and in a lot of ways, it really did! I started here in 2003 as a classroom teacher, and I've had the opportunity to grow up professionally alongside some amazing educators,” Reese said. 

Each role has taught Reese valuable lessons about education and leadership. As a classroom teacher, she learned the importance of relationships. Her work in instructional technology showed her the value of embracing change, while her experience as an administrator reinforced the importance of listening, making thoughtful decisions, and prioritizing students. 

“The biggest lesson I've learned is that leadership isn't about being the smartest person in the room or having all the answers. It's about surrounding yourself with good people, listening to them, trusting them, and giving them the support they need to do great things,” Reese said. 

After more than 20 years at Frenship, Reese continues to find joy in her work and the people who make a difference in students' lives every day. She said the award also represents the collective efforts of the Frenship High School staff, whose dedication extends far beyond the classroom. 

“I get to work with some of the most dedicated educators and administrative team you'll ever meet. We have staff who give up their time outside of the normal school day to help students, coaches and sponsors who spend countless hours investing in kids outside the classroom, and educators who do a hundred little things every day that often go unnoticed,” Reese said. 

She emphasized that the impact of educators goes beyond academics and extracurricular activities. Through meaningful relationships, staff members help students feel supported, celebrated, and valued. 

“And what I love is that our people don't just teach a subject or coach a sport. They build relationships. They notice when a student is having a bad day. They celebrate the kid who finally passes a test after struggling all semester. They make students feel like somebody is in their corner,” Reese said. 

From academics and Career and Technical Education (CTE) to athletics, fine arts, and Unified Sports, Reese said Frenship High School works to ensure every student has opportunities to discover their interests and find a place where they belong. 

“I've always believed that the best things we accomplish in education happen when we work together. This award may have my name on it, but I hope it shines a light on the amazing things happening at Frenship High School every single day,” Reese said. 

The sense of community at Frenship has also played a significant role in Reese's approach to leadership. She said the shared pride among families, students, and staff creates a connection that brings people together, whether they are cheering on students at school events or supporting one another through difficult times. 

“Once you're a Frenship Tiger, it's hard to imagine being anything else!” Reese said. 

For Reese, that connection means creating a school environment where every student and staff member knows they matter. 

“I really do love these Tigers like they're my own. I hope they always know that even on their worst day, there's somebody at school who cares about them and believes in them. That's what makes Frenship special to me. It's the people and the relationships,” Reese said. 

As she reflects on her career and this latest recognition, Reese expressed gratitude for the mentors, administrators, colleagues, and students who have influenced her journey. 

“I would just like to say thank you. Thank you to the people who took a chance on me as a young teacher, the mentors who helped me grow, the administrators who believed in me, and the teachers and staff who make me better at my job every day,” Reese said. 

“And thank you to our students. They make me laugh and constantly remind me why I love education so much.” 

Reese also shared a message about the importance of everyday moments in education, reminding fellow educators that small acts of kindness and support can make a lasting difference. 

“If I've learned anything in my career, it's that the little things are usually the big things. Taking a minute to listen to a student, checking on a teacher who's having a rough day, showing up at a kid's event, or simply making someone feel seen can make a bigger difference than we realize,” Reese said. 

Frenship ISD congratulates Reese on being named the TASSP Overall High School Assistant Principal of the Year and celebrates the opportunity for her to represent Texas at the national level. Her recognition reflects not only her dedication to educational leadership but also the relationships, teamwork, and commitment to students that define the Frenship Way.