On a typical morning at Highland Park High School, the assistant principals, the principal and other administration staff stand at the student entrance and welcome every entering student. This year, a new face was added to the welcome party. Bringing 26 years of experience, Kathleen Navickas, Ph.D., joined the high school as an assistant principal.

“I don’t think I’ll ever want to leave campus because I love those daily interactions working with students, it’s my passion,” Navickas said.

When Navickas went to college, she did not know what career path to take. But, her love for reading and writing led her to pursue education.

“My father always told me I’d make a great teacher,” Navickas said. “I started taking education classes, finished my English degree, and gave teaching a try.”

Dr. Navickas went back to school for a master’s degree in reading education and worked as an instructional specialist for five years before switching to administration. Before coming to HPHS, Navickas served as an assistant principal in Hutto ISD and Austin ISD.

“I actually heard about the job from a friend. I knew the area was great and that students here take their education seriously,” Navickas said. “What really sold me was the service hours students have to complete. I think that’s innovative and wonderful, it teaches students to give back to their community.”

Since joining the administration team this fall, Navickas has already been well received by her colleagues. Assistant Principal Annaur Ortiz felt Dr. Navickas was a great edition to the administrative team and the school culture. 

“She is level-headed, very calm, and has a good affect. I’d say she comes across as caring and kind, and that’s important. We want parents and students to feel like we care about them, because we do.” Ortiz said.

Navickas brings a lot of experience from her previous work in Austin ISD where she served as an administrator for three years.

“She has a lot of experience and many strengths. She came from Austin ISD, which is a district similar in some ways to ours, and she brings fresh ideas and perspectives.” Principal Dr. Kevin Hunt said.

As Navickas settled into her role at Highland Park, she oversaw the practice SAT and has been working closely with the students in her alpha, Fa – Lee.

“My vision is that every Scot will do their best to excel. I want students to realize that even when things are challenging, they can push through. Every student needs to be challenged, no matter their starting point or adversity.” Navickas said.

Outside of work, Navickas values time with her family. Originally from the Chicagoland area, she moved to Texas as a senior in high school. On weekends, she enjoys driving down and visiting her nephews in Austin.

Navickas has a well rounded perspective giving her experience in elementary, middle, and high school education.  She has worked as a teacher, an instructional specialist helping other teachers improve their craft and as an assistant principal in multiple districts, gaining 26 years of experience.

“It’s good to have a new team member joining us. I think Dr. Navickas brings a lot of skill and experience to our team.” Ortiz said.

For the rest of the year, Navickas hopes to make a positive impact on Highland Park High School by building strong relationships with students and staff.

“I want to end the year feeling comfortable in the area and confident that I’ve supported students well,” Navickas said.

For Navickas, her passion is always with her students, and she is always there to help any student in need. 

“It’s more than discipline, it’s making sure my students are okay and supported. Even  teenagers need guidance, and I’m proud that I can provide that,” Navickas said.