Dr. Kelly Marchiando Named Next Willow Wood Junior High Principal

TOMBALL - Dr. Kelly Marchiando, current Principal of Tomball Intermediate, has been announced as the next Principal of Willow Wood Junior High, replacing Kevin Williams who has recently accepted the opportunity to become the inaugural Principal of Tomball West High School.

“We are absolutely thrilled to announce Dr. Kelly Marchiando, a truly exceptional leader, as the new principal of WWJHS,” said Dr. Mindy Munoz, TISD Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools. “Her proven track record of success, coupled with a genuine passion for both staff and students, makes her the perfect fit to build upon the already remarkable achievements of the WWJHS Wildcats.”

Dr. Marchiando has dedicated 18 years to education, five years as a Principal in Tomball ISD, serving both Tomball Star Academy (2020-23) and Tomball Intermediate (2023-25) during that span. 

During her tenure at Tomball Intermediate, she has established a reputation for visionary leadership, a deep commitment to student success, and a culture of innovation and collaboration. For her strong leadership, Dr. Marchiando was named the 2024-2025 Tomball ISD Secondary Principal of the Year.

Under her guidance, Tomball Intermediate has seen notable improvements in academic performance, student engagement, and staff development. She has also elevated community engagement opportunities, and supported a collaborative teaching and learning environment as a PLC Model School.

Dr. Marchiando joined Tomball ISD as Principal of Tomball Star Academy back in 2020. At TSA, she played an integral role in the opening of Tomball ISD’s first P-TECH, and celebrated with the Tomball Star Academy campus staff as a PLC Model School.

Prior to joining Tomball ISD, she spent time in Conroe ISD where she served as the Associate Principal for Curriculum and Instruction at The Woodlands High School. Before her last stint in Conroe ISD, she was the Gifted and Talented Coordinator in Humble ISD during two different stints (2015-16, 2013-14). Between the two, she was the Assistant Principal at the Conroe 9th Grade Campus in Conroe ISD (2014-15). 

Dr. Marchiando spent the previous seven years in Humble ISD as a campus administrator, specifically as an Assistant Principal at both Summer Creek High School (2009-12) and Kingwood High School (2012-13). Her educational career began back in 2002 as a 7th grade ELA teacher at Dulles Middle School in Sugar Land before joining Humble ISD in 2004 where she served as an 8th grade RELA GT teacher at Creekwood Middle School until 2009. 

As a campus leader, she brings a wealth of experience at the secondary level and understands the importance of innovation, growth, and remaining student-focused. 

“Dr. Marchiando brings a high vision of success, a dedication to fostering a collaborative and innovative learning environment, and a deep understanding of the importance of community involvement,” said Dr. Munoz. “We are confident that her commitment to building strong relationships within the school and beyond will further strengthen the bonds that make WWJHS such a special place. Get ready to embark on an exciting new chapter, filled with growth, achievement, and a shared vision for excellence.”

Again, Dr. Marchiando will continue as Principal at Tomball Intermediate through the end of the 2024-2025 school year, where she will then shift her focus and become the next campus leader at WWJHS beginning in August. The search for the next Tomball Intermediate Principal is currently underway and a new campus leader will be announced soon.

Read what Dr. Kelly Marchiando had to say:

What’s intriguing about leading Willow Wood Junior High?
“Leading Willow Wood Junior High presents an exciting opportunity to collaborate with students, families, and staff during a crucial stage of adolescence. By blending my passion for social-emotional well-being with my secondary education experience, we can inspire academic excellence, ignite early career exploration, and cultivate strong school and community bonds. Our collaborative efforts at the junior high will focus on instilling the academic skills, self-advocacy, and organizational habits essential for high school success, all built upon a foundation of strong relationships.”

With your experience at the junior high school level, what are you looking forward to again?
“What I'm most anticipating about returning to the junior high level is the significant potential for connection with students and families outside the traditional classroom. I'm especially enthusiastic about engaging with their interests through student clubs, athletics, and fine arts, as these interactions are crucial for building strong relationships and a thriving school community. Additionally, I'm excited for the opportunity to guide these young learners in understanding how their current studies and passions can shape their future academic and career choices. This chance to provide early direction and empower their decision-making is a prospect I find deeply fulfilling.”

What can the community expect from you as a leader? What will the culture be like?
“As the new campus leader at WWJHS, the community can expect a leader who operates with a servant heart. Above all, you can expect that my greatest strength and passion lies in building meaningful relationships that positively impact everyone we serve – students, families, and staff alike. My leadership is rooted in these connections, aiming to create a supportive and thriving community for all. The community will see my unwavering enthusiasm for student success and a commitment to fostering an environment of exploration where students feel empowered to discover their passions.” 

What’s special about working in Tomball ISD?
“What truly sets Tomball ISD apart is the deep-seated understanding that our work extends beyond the classroom walls. There's a real appreciation for the community that entrusts us with their children and a genuine desire to partner with them in shaping well-rounded individuals. It's about creating an environment where academic rigor and heartfelt connection go hand-in-hand, where students are challenged to excel academically while feeling supported and understood. We are dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of young people. Tomball ISD a place where you feel truly connected and valued, where there is a shared purpose that permeates everything we do. It is a place that resonates with a deeper sense of belonging; it is home.”

ABOUT TOMBALL ISD
Tomball ISD educates students to become responsible, productive citizens by providing innovative, individually rigorous, and personally valuable educational experiences. Founded in 1908, Tomball ISD now encompasses 83 square miles in northwest Harris County and southwest Montgomery County, and is located approximately 30 miles from downtown Houston. The district currently educates 23,000 students across 24 campuses. Tomball Intermediate will open August 2025 as the 25th campus and Tomball West High School will become Tomball ISD’s 26th campus and third comprehensive high school.