Dr. Katie McConnell

Dr. Katie McConnell

Chief Operating Officer

kmcconnell@childrenatrisk.org

About Katie 

Dr. Katie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and an EdD in Educational Leadership from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Prior to joining CHILDREN AT RISK in June of 2014, Katie was a teacher and administrator in a local district. Katie’s background in education will provide a unique perspective to the work being done at CHILDREN AT RISK, and she is eager to serve student populations in a different capacity.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Other than to grow up to be completely awesome (mission accomplished), I also was torn between a career as a ballerina or a cowgirl.  Both were things I knew nothing about (which is still true today) but I was pretty sure I would be the best!

What teacher had the greatest impact on you?

I think the teacher that had the greatest impact on me was my 9th grade Algebra teacher.  Not only did he make the content understandable, he let us be 9th graders!  He supported our academic and personal growth.  He challenged us, supported us, and expected our best work on everything we did, even when we had no idea what we were doing.  Admittedly, the quadratic formula has little to no bearing on my life to this day, but his way of teaching us had a lasting impact, both personally and professionally.

What is your dream for Texas children?

If I were to list all of my dreams for Texas’ children, I would probably fill up the internet.  But simply stated, I want all children to have opportunities to reach their full potential.  Those opportunities look different for different kids in different areas at different ages based on different experiences and views; yet despite the enormity of the task, there is no greater work than empowering the next generation to be better than I have been!