McKinney, Texas –  It’s difficult to imagine a job that could feel more “at home” than the one in which Inetra Nelson finds herself each day.

Raised in McKinney, the 1994 graduate of McKinney High School spent her formative years in McKinney ISD elementary schools before attending Faubion as a middle schooler. Along the way, she encountered educators who would become icons of the district; Johnson Elementary namesake Reuben Johnson was her principal at Burks Elementary, and Jesse McGowen, for whom McGowen Elementary was named, was her high school counselor.

And, for the past 14 years of what has grown into an 18 year career as an educator, Nelson has followed in their footsteps by serving the next generation of MISD students, first as a 3rd grade teacher at Johnson Elementary, then as an assistant principal at Eddins Elementary—and for the past four years, as the assistant principal of Minshew Elementary.

Now, Nelson has been chosen to be the new principal of Minshew beginning in the 2017-2018 school year. The job became available when current Principal Al Conley was chosen to succeed Pam Bendorf as principal of Burks Elementary after Bendorf announced earlier this month her plan to retire.

For Nelson, the promotion is more than just a next step in her career. “It’s such an honor to serve the McKinney community,” Nelson said. “I am a proud McKinney native who’s been blessed with a career in the same district that afforded me so many opportunities as a child. I have loved being part of the Minshew family and look forward to many more years.”

Suzy Woodard, MISD assistant superintendent of elementary student support, has watched Nelson’s career develop over the past 10 years and has been impressed by her talent, work ethic and commitment to students. “Inetra was an excellent teacher, and she has always been the kind of person who is willing to go above and beyond. She puts students first in every decision she makes.”

Woodard added that Nelson’s familiarity with the school will help ensure a smooth transition of leadership for the campus. “She’s really going to be able to hit the ground running because of what she already knows of the teachers and students. She’ll be able to build on the success that she and Al have established and will keep Minshew moving to the next level. She is ready to take the reins.”

For Nelson, it’s an opportunity to continue serving her community. “I have loved being part of the Minshew family and look forward to many more years. The relationships I have developed with the students, parents and staff are such a blessing. I’m excited to follow in the footsteps of Mr. Conley and the remarkable Minshew leaders before me. And, I am committed to continuing a legacy of excellence. We are unique! We are winners! We are Minshew Colts!”

Nelson earned a bachelor’s degree in multidisciplinary studies with a minor in Spanish from Texas Tech University and a master’s degree in education administration from Texas Woman’s University.

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