Lorena ISD is excited to announce Samantha Craytor has been named the new principal at Lorena Middle School. Craytor is coming to Lorena ISD from the Waco Independent School District where she has been the principal at Crestview Elementary for the last five years. “I am thrilled to join Lorena Independent School District as the new middle school principal and look forward to working alongside such a dedicated and passionate team,” Craytor said. “The opportunity to contribute to a community that values educational excellence and student success is truly inspiring. Together, we will foster an environment where every student can thrive and achieve their full potential.”

Prior to becoming the principal at Crestview Elementary, Craytor was an assistant principal and instructional specialist at the school. She spent a total of 10 years at Crestview. “My time at Crestview Elementary School has equipped me with a strong foundation in fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment,” Craytor said. “The experience of collaborating with talented educators and implementing innovative teaching strategies has prepared me well for the challenges of middle school. I am excited to bring these skills to my new role, where I will continue to promote academic excellence and student growth.”

Craytor began her career in education in Killeen ISD as a biology teacher at Killeen High School and an instructional specialist at Charles Patterson Middle School.

Craytor and her husband Bret have a son Ace, and their family dog Scout.