In Palacios ISD, Katie Bowen serves as director of Curriculum & Instruction and Federal Programs, a position she came to a year ago with 22 years of work in education under her belt.
Her peers in PISD are glad Bowen took the role, and credit her with helping the district thrive.
“She is an inspiring leader because she leads with a servant’s heart,” says Jared Duncum, superintendent in PISD. ‘“She is always willing to do whatever is needed to achieve the goals of the day or help out with elementary car duty!”
Bowen says she is proud to work in Palacios, where she sees how diversity enriches both the classrooms and the community as a whole. She is happy to work in a district that offers many opportunities and rigorous programs designed to prepare students for the future.
“Our students and staff have access to some of the newest and best facilities in the state,” she says. “These spaces are designed to support innovation, collaboration, and excellence, giving our students the environment they need to learn, grow, and thrive.”
Working in public education can be challenging, but Bowen says she is driven every day by the students she serves and a strong desire to help them achieve.
“They inspire me in ways nothing else can. Their energy, curiosity, and resilience remind me why this work matters. This isn’t just a job — it’s a calling. I don’t want to be anywhere else.”
Mentorship and teamwork are also motivational factors for Bowen, who says she has been guided throughout her administration career by those around her.
“My colleagues push me to grow, think differently, and reach higher than I would alone. Their knowledge and perspective can challenge my assumptions, spark new ideas, and accelerate my personal and professional development.”
Asked what TASA programs have most helped her development as an inspiring leader, Bowen is quick to share her love for the Small Schools Network.
“The TASA Small Schools Network has been an amazing opportunity to visit other districts and learn some of their best practices,” she says. “The most rewarding part is engaging with other school leaders to hear how they have best managed challenges and created opportunities for their students’ success.”
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