Kurt Stephens Named New Principal at Lufkin High School

In June, Mark Smith announced that he was retiring after 10 years of service as the Lufkin High School Principal, and on the first day of July, Lufkin ISD Superintendent, Dr. LaTonya Goffney has named Mr. Kurt Stephens as the next Lufkin High School Principal.   According to a press release from Lufkin ISD,

Mr. Stephens, a Lufkin High School alum, has served the past 15 years in various capacities on the LHS campus from coach to teacher and counselor to his current position as the Associate Principal.

Dr. LaTonya Goffney said, “The hiring committee consisted of 15 people who unanimously agreed that Mr. Stephens is the right person for the job. He has the experience and the dedication to Lufkin ISD to continue the tradition of success at Lufkin High School.”

Mr. Stephens has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education/Kinesiology, Master of Arts Degree in School Counseling, his Principal’s and Superintendent’s Certification all from Stephen F. Austin State University. He has served as the Associate Principal at Lufkin High School since 2006 and before that was the Director of Counseling.

Mr. Stephens, said, “I am excited, honored, and humbled at the opportunity to serve the great students, staff and community as the principal of Lufkin High School.  Lufkin welcomed us with open arms when moving here as a ninth grader in 1983 and has continued to be a vital support as Sonja and I raise our children.  I look forward with great anticipation as I transition into this new role of service and leadership.  It’s a great time to be a Lufkin Panther!”

Goffney said, “In addition to an extensive interview for the position, I also polled the high school staff to find out what kind of leader they want. In the survey, the staff took the time to write many comments highly recommending Mr. Stephens for the job. I know the high school is in good hands with Mr. Stephens. He has proven to be a respected leader and hard worker. I look forward to working with him in his new position.”

Mr. Stephens and his wife, Sonja, have two daughters Madison, who is in the honors program at the University of Houston and Peyton, who will be a junior at Lufkin High School next year. Mr. Stephens will assume the role of principal effective immediately.