My name is Stephen Richardson and I am so excited to be the new principal of Donny O’Dell Elementary School. I am honored to have been selected to join the Celina School District, which is known far and wide for its dedication to excellence, but more importantly, to children. Over the past 17 years, I have worked as a teacher and administrator. I will spend a lot of time with your children, getting to know their personalities, learning styles and interests. I will celebrate their successes, small and large. I will encourage them every day and let them know they are valued and have a special place in the O’Dell community.

Not only am I excited to begin working with your children, but I look forward to the work we will do together. As the old African Proverb states, “It takes a village to raise a child.” I am excited to see your children through your eyes. I cannot wait to share with you the great things they do throughout their days here at O’Dell. And of course I will be here to work with you should they need any help navigating any aspect of the school day. 

My goal is to ensure that all children are healthy, happy and safe, so they may learn as much as they can. This has been my philosophy since I began my career teaching with the Grapevine Colleyville ISD. I have worked in Little Elm ISD, for the past seven years where I served as the  Assistant Principal and most recently the Principal. My greatest achievement comes not professionally, but personally, as I am the father of two beautiful children: Camryn (17) and Mark (14). People often say I treat all children in my school as if they were my own. Please know I will work tirelessly to ensure all your children have the best possible experiences while at O’Dell. Once again, I am so thankful to have the opportunity to bring all that I have experienced and learned with me to your wonderful community. I look forward to getting to know you and your children. I will be working most days this summer to ensure a smooth transition and opening in August. Please stop by to say hello. I look forward to meeting you soon. 

Warm Regards,

Stephen Richardson

Donny O’ Dell Elementary Principal