TASA’s “Inspiring Leaders” tagline is not just a reminder of TASA’s commitment to leadership development; it describes our members themselves — school leaders who inspire others as they work to prepare future-ready students. Meet Patricia Lewis, one of those Inspiring Leaders.
For the past eight years, Patricia Lewis has served in the administration in Grand Prairie ISD, where she currently holds the role of associate superintendent. A teacher for 18 years before moving into administration, Lewis has known she wanted to be an educator since she was in the fourth grade. For her, teaching is all about leadership — leading others, but also empowering a new generation of leaders.
“As educators, we can directly impact the future of our world, for the better,” she says. “I decided long ago not to allow myself to give up, not to become discouraged. Instead, I have developed a laser focus on what I can do today to directly impact the future of this world. Are there challenges? Yes. Am I ever discouraged? Certainly. But, the truth of our role as educators, we must never lose sight of our truth.”
Cornelia McCowan, executive director of college readiness in Grand Prairie ISD, says that Lewis is an evolutionary leader who truly loves people.
“Mrs. Lewis has a serve-first mindset, and her focus is always on empowering and uplifting her team,” McCowan says. “She serves with humility and kindness and is always looking to enhance the development of her team. She is intentional and knows how to unlock potential, creativity and a sense of purpose in those around her.”
A self-proclaimed lifelong learner, Lewis feels that mentorship and relationship building are key in successful leadership. She cites her abilities to build positive relationships as a foundation for her success, both personally and professionally.
“I would not be the associate superintendent of schools were it not for all the people who have mentored me along the way,” she says. “We must encourage meaningful relationships with other educators, plan for it, prepare for it and equip each other with methods to mentor in meaningful ways.”
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