Maria Schell, Principal

Maria Schell was raised and educated in the Duncanville, Texas public school system. She earned a full athletic scholarship to Iowa State University where she also completed her Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Ms. Schell grew up knowing she wanted to be a teacher/coach and her teaching experience includes all levels: elementary, middle, and high school, even a few years coaching at the university level. While teaching English and coaching at South Grand Prairie High School Ms. Schell earned her master’s degree at the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas. Shortly after, she transitioned from coaching students to coaching teachers.

Ms. Schell has been in GPISD since the 2000-2001 school year. She taught at South Grand Prairie High School and has been an administrator at SGP, Dubiski, and GPFAA. Ms. Schell opened SGP Ninth Grade Center as a teacher, Dubiski as an assistant principal and Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy as the principal. The schools of choice in GPISD have been on the forefront of education in Texas and she is proud to be a small part of this “new normal” in public education.

Ms. Schell has a eighteen-year-old daughter, who is an active member of the GPFAA Mariachi Strand. "Being an educator has always been my calling; but nothing compares to being a mom! These two roles in my life are both rewarding and challenging. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” says Schell.

Being a champion for students is what I am extremely passionate about, and I could not imagine myself doing anything else. I am a servant leader who wants to see ALL students succeed not only while at GPFAA but far beyond whether it be college, career, or military. We prepare them for challenges, support them through struggles, and love them always. GPFAA is a unique school with dedicated loving teachers, supportive parents, and crazy amazing students. Our vision is “Extraordinary by Design” because we want all students to embrace how important it is to be intentionally unique.

Welcome to GPFAA. Please let me know if I can assist you in any way. 

Sincerely,

Maria Schell
Principal