Dr. John Burdett

During the May Board of Trustees meeting, the district announced Dr. John Burdett as the next Celina High School Principal. Burdett currently serves in Prosper ISD as the Director of Student Services. After serving Prosper High School for five years to serve in Student Services, Burdett quickly realized his heart is at the campus level working directly with students and teachers.

“My family and I are excited to join such a prestigious school district and to become part of the Bobcat Nation,” John Burdett said. “I look forward to getting to know the staff, students, and our families as we join together to build upon the greatness at Celina High School and to create a unique, world class learning environment where all our kids thrive in academics, athletics, and fine arts. Celina ISD has a distinguished reputation due to the wonderful staff, students, and families, and I look forward to walking arm-in-arm with the community to invest in, grow, and create the amazing future of Celina High School!”

Burdett has 28 years of experience in education and has served in a variety of roles ranging from middle school English Language Arts teacher, administrative leadership, and high school principalships. In particular, his service in fast-growth districts has prepared Burdett to lead Celina High School through a second phase of construction that will double the size of the campus while expanding course offerings to meet student needs and interests.

“With our unique interview process that included over 17 CHS staff and students, Dr. Burdett resonated with every member of our interview teams, clearly communicating his focus on building connections and providing opportunities for every student and every staff member to grow to be their very best,” said Dr. Tom Maglisceau, Superintendent of Schools. “Throughout his career, Dr. Burdett has maintained a strong commitment to advanced academics, high expectations, and strong student achievement. His commitment to broadening leadership opportunities for students and staff alike is exactly what our stakeholders expressed as priorities to our team as we developed the profile for the next principal of Celina High School.”

Burdett has served in Prosper, Frisco, Plano, and Lewisville Independent School Districts. He received his Bachelor and Master of Arts from Auburn University and a Doctorate at the University of North Texas.