ALLEN, Texas — The principal of Texas' largest high school, Matt Russell, announced Thursday that he will retire at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 school year.
This is Russell's fifth year at the helm of Allen High School and his 28th with Allen ISD.
Prior to becoming principal at Allen High School in 2020, Russell was the principal at Ford Middle School. He also served in different roles as an associate principal for administrative services, house principal, inclusion specialist, vocational adjustment coordinator and resource math and content mastery teacher.
"It has been an incredible honor to serve as the principal of Allen High School and to be part of the Allen ISD family for nearly three decades," Russell said in a news release. "I'm immensely proud of what we've accomplished together and the culture of excellence we've maintained and enhanced over the years."
During his tenure at Allen High School, 43 students were named National Merit Semifinalists. In addition, Russell and his team created "Eagle Give Day" which enabled thousands of students to assist in service projects and community service.
Russell said in the news release that this day exemplifies the spirit of service that they strive to instill in each student who comes through Allen High School.
"Matt Russell's impact on Allen ISD has been profound," Superintendent Robin Bullock said. "His leadership over the years has been instrumental in maintaining our high standards and fostering an environment where students and staff alike can thrive. His retirement marks the end of an era in Allen ISD!"
According to the school district, a statewide search for Russell's successor will begin soon.
