At YES Prep, our assistant principals are relationship builders, coaches, problem-solvers and champions for students and staff alike. In honor of National Assistant Principals Week, we’re spotlighting a few of the many incredible leaders who bring passion, purpose and heart to their work every day. Join us in celebrating all our assistant principals across YES Prep for the vital role they play in shaping school culture and student success.
Jamelle Smith, Assistant Principal at North Forest Elementary
Years at YES Prep: 9
For Jamelle Smith, the decision to become an assistant principal was rooted in a desire to expand her impact beyond the classroom.
“I became an assistant principal to support both students and teachers,” she said. “I love building systems that drive growth and watching our school community thrive because of it.”
At North Forest Elementary, Smith focuses on visibility and relationship-building to foster a joyful, productive environment. Whether she’s coaching a teacher or working through a challenge with a student, her goal is always to promote growth.
A founding assistant principal, Smith is especially proud of seeing the campus grow from pre-K through second grade to a full pre-K through fifth grade school.
“It warms my heart to see our founding class prepare for middle school and remember where they started,” she said.
For aspiring school leaders, her advice is simple but powerful: “Stay grounded in your purpose and lead with heart and humility.”
Nicholas Donis, Assistant Principal at North Rankin Elementary
Years at YES Prep: 3
Nicholas Donis was drawn to school leadership by a desire to serve both students and teachers on a broader scale.
“I saw administration as a way to create an environment where students feel seen and supported, and where teachers feel empowered and valued,” he said.
At North Rankin Elementary, Donis supports students and staff through presence, consistency and strong relationships. A standout moment for him was coaching a first-year teacher from uncertainty to confidence. Through weekly check-ins, classroom visits, and honest, supportive feedback, he guided her in setting achievable goals, strengthening her classroom management, and growing into a confident, thriving educator.
“She’s now one of the most successful teachers on our team,” he said. “Watching her transformation was truly inspiring.”
Donis knows the job comes with challenges, especially balancing daily tasks with long-term planning, but he stays focused on what matters most: student success.
His message to those considering the role, “Lead with heart, stay grounded in your ‘why’ and be ready to grow every day.”
Elizabeth Rodriguez, Assistant Principal at East End Elementary
Years at YES Prep: 4
For Elizabeth Rodriguez, becoming an assistant principal was about paying it forward.
“I had incredible coaches and principals who made me feel supported as a teacher,” she said. “I wanted to provide that same level of support and impact for both teachers and students.”
Now at East End Elementary, Rodriguez finds purpose in relationships—with students, teachers and families alike. She emphasizes recognizing and celebrating teachers, especially when the work gets tough.
One of her proudest moments this year was organizing the campus’s first walk for the American Diabetes Association, a cause close to the community.
“It reminded me of how strong and connected our school community really is,” she said.
Rodriguez balances the fast-paced nature of school leadership with grace—and a little help from reality TV, dog snuggles and pasta on the hardest days.
Her advice to future leaders? “Remember that this is people work. Lead with empathy and build strong relationships—that’s what makes the difference.”
Ready to Lead with Purpose?
Our assistant principals are key to creating the thriving, high-achieving school communities our students deserve. If you’re passionate about education, leadership and making a real impact, consider joining the YES Prep team. Explore opportunities to grow your career with us and help shape the future of Houston’s public education.
See our careers page for more information: yesprep.org/careers.