UT Charter School is proud to announce that Executive Principal Kris Ann Schmidt has been selected as a semi-finalist in the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. This recognition honors her outstanding leadership across three unique campuses: Olympia Hills, Texas NeuroRehab Center, and Pathfinders Camp.
A graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Secondary Education, Kris Ann brings a deep commitment to student and teacher success. Her leadership is grounded in a strong focus on positive school culture, classroom presence, and staff wellness—especially critical in the specialized environments she oversees.
In her award application, Kris Ann emphasized the importance of trauma-informed practices and the district’s use of the Neurosequential Model in Education developed by Dr. Bruce Perry. This model, which aligns with UT Charter School’s emphasis on trauma and grief informed school-based care, helps educators understand how trauma impacts brain development and learning. By applying the 6R’s—Relational, Relevant, Repetitive, Rewarding, Rhythmic, and Respectful—her teams create supportive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environments.
Kris Ann’s recognition reflects not only her personal dedication but also the strength of UT Charter School’s connections with The University of Texas College of Education and its commitment to innovative, research-based education.
