Klein ISD is proud to announce Kleb Intermediate School Principal Spring Payne as the 2026 District Secondary Principal of the Year!
Ms. Payne is a results-driven, student-centered leader who fosters an environment of innovation and growth at her school. Her commitment to improvement and excellence sets her apart as a standout principal.
“Ms. Payne represents the very best of Klein ISD,” Klein ISD Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown said. “She brings vision, passion, and a true heart for people to her work, always leading with genuine kindness and care and pursuing excellence for every student, every day. We are so proud to celebrate her outstanding leadership as our 2026 Klein ISD Secondary Principal of the Year.”
Since joining the Klein Family in 2010, Ms. Payne has served as an assistant principal at Strack Intermediate before stepping into her role as the beloved principal of Kleb Intermediate. She is known for building strong structures for instruction, discipline, and professional collaboration, while ensuring her campus remains a welcoming place for students and staff alike.
As an instructional leader, Ms. Payne blends fresh ideas with proven best practices from her elementary leadership experience to strengthen learning at the secondary level. Colleagues describe her as a trusted teammate and steady cheerleader, always ready to listen, support, and advocate for students and teachers with integrity.
“I am truly humbled and deeply grateful to be named Secondary Principal of the Year,” Ms. Payne said. “This honor is possible due to the incredible people who fill Kleb’s halls each day: our devoted staff who are committed to bringing excellence every day, and our students who believe in excellence in all, for all, and by all. Their passion, curiosity, and resilience constantly inspire me. I am grateful for our families who partner with us and entrust us with their children. It is that very gift of being able to serve that drives my passion and commitment to bring the promise of excellence to every student, every staff member, every family, and our community. I’m also thankful for the wonderful principals I’m blessed to serve alongside and the district leaders whose wisdom and encouragement inspire me greatly. This recognition reflects our shared commitment to every child, and I carry it with a heart that overflows with joy.”
Congratulations, Principal Payne, on this well-deserved recognition!