Coppell ISD

Cottonwood Creek Elementary Principal Dr. Andra Penny was recognized by the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) in early June as a Sandi Borden Tribute to Texas Children Award recipient. Dr. Penny and The Honorable Charlie Geren, a member of the Texas House of Representatives, were honored for their service and commitment to Texas public education. Dr. Penny has served as the principal of Cottonwood Creek Elementary since its opening in 1996. Prior to leading Cottonwood Creek, she was an assistant principal in Coppell ISD and Denton ISD. During her 27 years at Cottonwood Creek, she has mentored thousands of students and teachers. Many educators who have worked under Dr. Penny’s leadership have gone on to become school principals, and five of her former elementary school students returned to Cottonwood Creek after graduation to become teachers.

Dr. Penny has served as a role model for countless aspiring administrators. For more than two decades, she has been an adjunct professor at the University of North Texas and was recognized as their Outstanding Alumnae in 2000. She is also an adjunct professor at Columbia University for both the New York City and New Orleans campuses. She also served on the Leadership Advisory Council for Capella University. Dr. Penny has presented at more than 300 workshops and conventions throughout Texas and nationally. In addition, Dr. Penny serves as a consultant for effective principal leadership, campus morale, and best practices.

“We are proud to honor Chairman Geren and Dr. Penny for their longtime public service and advocacy on behalf of Texas students and educators. They lead—at the Capitol and on campus—with children’s best interest at heart,” TEPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart said.