(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — Sept. 22, 2025) — El Paso ISD proudly announces the appointment of Wanda Johnson as the new principal of Charles Q. Murphree PK-8. A veteran educator and leader with more than 25 years of experience, Johnson brings a proven record of raising student achievement, strengthening school culture, and mentoring future leaders across the district.
Johnson most recently served as the founding principal of Hartley PK-8, where she established campuswide systems and hired a team that fostered a strong climate and culture. Prior to Hartley, she led Ross Middle School, where her leadership helped improve student performance across all academic areas, and Milam Elementary, which earned a prestigious National Blue-Ribbon School Award in 2020 under her direction.
Earlier in her career, she also served as principal at Travis Elementary, where she implemented innovative programs that dramatically increased student reading and science proficiency.
Johnson is a certified EPISD Master Principal, a member of the Principals Leadership Team, and a mentor for campus leaders across the district. She has also provided training for principals and assistant principals in areas such as instructional leadership and evaluation systems.
With a master’s degree from the University of Texas at El Paso and extensive training in curriculum design and leadership development, Johnson is known for her ability to lead cross-functional teams, implement innovative instructional practices, and create welcoming, high-performing school communities.
Her appointment reflects El Paso ISD’s ongoing commitment to empowering strong leaders who can guide campuses toward academic excellence and community trust.