Dr. Kelly Marchiando Named Next Principal of Willow Wood Junior High
Following the announcement of Kevin Williams as the inaugural principal of Tomball West High School, Dr. Kelly Marchiando, the current principal of Tomball Intermediate, has been named the next principal of Willow Wood Junior High School (WWJHS). Marchiando, a seasoned educational leader with more than 18 years of experience, will assume her new role beginning August 2025, following the completion of the current school year.
“We are absolutely thrilled to announce Dr. Kelly Marchiando, a truly exceptional leader, as the new principal of WWJHS,” said Dr. Mindy Munoz, TISD Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools. “Her proven track record of success, coupled with a genuine passion for both staff and students, makes her the perfect fit to build upon the already remarkable achievements of the WWJHS Wildcats.”
A Track Record of Leadership and Innovation
Dr. Marchiando was recently honored as the 2024–2025 Tomball ISD Secondary Principal of the Year, recognized for her visionary leadership at both Tomball Intermediate and Tomball Star Academy. Her approach has consistently prioritized student engagement, staff development, and community involvement, resulting in notable academic improvements and both campuses achieving PLC Model School status.
Her broader career includes key leadership roles in Conroe ISD and Humble ISD, as well as experience in the classroom as an English Language Arts teacher. Across each role, Dr. Marchiando has cultivated a reputation for combining educational excellence with an unwavering commitment to student well-being and growth.
“Leading Willow Wood Junior High presents an exciting opportunity to collaborate with students, families, and staff during a crucial stage of adolescence,” said Marchiando. “By blending my passion for social-emotional well-being with my secondary education experience, we can inspire academic excellence, ignite early career exploration, and cultivate strong school and community bonds.”
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Embracing the Junior High Experience
Returning to the junior high level is a welcome transition for Dr. Marchiando, who views these years as pivotal for building meaningful student connections and shaping future-ready mindsets.
“What I'm most anticipating about returning to the junior high level is the significant potential for connection with students and families outside the traditional classroom,” she said. “I'm especially enthusiastic about engaging with their interests through student clubs, athletics, and fine arts… These interactions are crucial for building a thriving school community.”
Her leadership approach reflects a student-first mindset rooted in strong relationships and a culture of exploration. “As the new campus leader at WWJHS, the community can expect a leader who operates with a servant heart. Above all, you can expect that my greatest strength and passion lies in building meaningful relationships that positively impact everyone we serve—students, families, and staff alike.”
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
Dr. Marchiando has long championed collaboration and the importance of aligning educational goals with real-world relevance. “I'm excited for the opportunity to guide these young learners in understanding how their current studies and passions can shape their future academic and career choices,” she added. “This chance to provide early direction and empower their decision-making is a prospect I find deeply fulfilling.”
As she prepares to lead WWJHS, she will continue to serve at Tomball Intermediate through the end of the 2024–2025 school year. The search for her successor at TI is currently underway.
Why Tomball ISD Feels Like Home
Dr. Marchiando emphasized that her journey through Tomball ISD has been defined by a shared sense of purpose and community support. “What truly sets Tomball ISD apart is the deep-seated understanding that our work extends beyond the classroom walls. There's a real appreciation for the community that entrusts us with their children and a genuine desire to partner with them in shaping well-rounded individuals,” she said. “Tomball ISD is a place where you feel truly connected and valued… It is home.”
With a new chapter on the horizon at Willow Wood Junior High, the district and school community look forward to welcoming a leader known for building strong campus cultures, encouraging academic growth, and fostering personal empowerment for every student.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
