Judd joined HPISD in 2016 as UP principal. She successfully led the campus through the bond reconstruction project of the new UP campus that included transitioning staff and students to a temporary location at elementary school #5, which is now Boone, designing the new UP campus and transitioning back to the new campus.
“While I am excited about my next adventure and chapter in my life, I will deeply miss the students and families of UP,” said Judd. “I have loved every minute of getting to know my Panthers and their families and will cherish my time here forever. The memories we have built will always be a part of my life and will always be with me. The incredible love and support within our community are like no other and I am so proud of the amazing UP staff and all of the great things we have accomplished these past seven years."
Under Judd’s leadership, UP has consistently maintained the state's highest accountability rating and students continued to grow academically each of the seven years she served as principal.
Highland Park ISD Superintendent Dr. Tom Trigg praised Judd for her leadership.
“Principal Judd has demonstrated exceptional leadership these last seven years,” said Trigg. “She has an unwavering ability to energize and engage staff, parents and the collective school community. Her caring approach has made a transformational difference and because of her leadership UP students have, and will continue to, thrive. We wish her the best in her retirement.”
Judd began her 33 years in education as an elementary classroom teacher at multiple grade levels, a music teacher and an instructional coach in Dallas ISD, Richardson ISD and Wilmette Illinois before moving into campus leadership. She has served as a campus principal for the past 18 years. First in Richardson ISD before taking the helm at Highland Park ISD’s UP Elementary.
Judd shared her retirement plans with Panther PTA presidents from 2017-2024 during a breakfast April 14 recognizing the numerous University Park Elementary School milestones and accomplishments over the last seven years. Members of the UP Dads Club were also at the breakfast. Past and present PTA Presidents in attendance were:
- Jean Signor
- Carrie Cothram
- Elizabeth Miller
- Jane Butler
- Julie Melihercik
- Rochelle Mayfield
- Stephanie Wilson
- Whitney Zapfe
View more photos from the breakfast here.