The Texas Association of Secondary School Principals (TASPP) has named Rancier Middle School Principal Dr. Jannelle Muhammad the 2026 Texas Middle School Principal of the Year. The statewide recognition honors her hands-on leadership style and commitment to students. 
Muhammad was unanimously selected by the TASSP Principal Image Committee, who cited her steady leadership, bold decision making and clear impact on student achievement and school culture. The award follows her recognition earlier this year as the Region 12 Outstanding Principal of the Year.
“This recognition is an incredible honor, but the true award is witnessing out students grow in confidence, character, and achievement,” Muhammad said. “Our success at Rancier is the result of dedicated teachers, staff, families, and students who believe deeply in what is possible. We are stronger together.”
After taking the principal role at Rancier Middle School in 2023, Muhammad quickly established a leadership style centered on responsiveness, clarity, and high expectations. Her approach blends strong direction with a deep belief that relations and consistency are non-negotiable ingredients for student success.
Under her leadership, Rancier has developed a climate where students feel seen, families feel welcomed, and teachers and staff feel supported.
During her tenure, Muhammad has guided several high-impact initiatives including a comprehensive academic turnaround effort focused on improving instructional systems, and a phone-free learning environment that has strengthened student engagement and improved instructional systems. She has also expanded family and community partnerships on campus and developed the school’s “Stronger Together” identity.
Muhammad’s leadership is supported by a strong academic foundation. She earned her bachelor’s degree and Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M University–Central Texas and later completed her Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Concordia University, Portland.
Killeen ISD’s Superintendent Dr. King Davis said Muhammad exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional campus leader. 
“Her passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to students are transforming Rancier Middle School,” Davis said. “There is more work to be done, but we’re excited to see the progress and the great things happening there under her leadership.”
As the 2026 Texas Middle School Principal of the Year, Muhammad will be honored by TASPP at the Texas Heroes Dinner in June 2026. The state-level honor also makes her eligible for the National Principal of the Year program by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).