The Victoria ISD Board of Trustees approved the appointments of Laura Casso as principal of Crain Elementary School and Leah Klemcke as principal of Torres Elementary School during its special called meeting on July 16.
Both leaders bring extensive educational experience, a deep understanding of Victoria ISD, and a strong commitment to supporting students, staff, and families. Their appointments reflect the district's continued focus on providing strong campus leadership that fosters academic excellence and positive school cultures.
Laura Casso Named Principal of Crain Elementary School
Casso has dedicated her entire career in education to Crain Elementary School, where she has spent the past 11 years serving students, staff, and families. Her longstanding commitment to the campus, deep relationships within the school community, and passion for student success make her well-positioned to lead Crain Elementary into its next chapter.
For the past two years, Casso has served as assistant principal at Crain Elementary, helping lead instructional programs, campus operations, and initiatives that support both student achievement and a positive school culture. Before becoming assistant principal, she served as the campus instructional coach, partnering with teachers to strengthen classroom instruction and student outcomes.
Casso began her career at Crain Elementary as a classroom teacher, where she built meaningful relationships with students and families while creating engaging learning environments that supported student success.
Casso earned a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Houston-Victoria and a Bachelor of Business Administration from The University of Texas at San Antonio.
Leah Klemcke Named Principal of Torres Elementary School
Klemcke brings more than two decades of experience in public education, including leadership roles that have allowed her to develop a strong understanding of Victoria ISD's schools, students, staff, and community. Having served both at the district level and in campus leadership positions, she is well-equipped to lead Torres Elementary while building on the campus's commitment to student success.
A familiar face throughout Victoria ISD, Klemcke has served in several leadership roles that have strengthened elementary campuses and supported districtwide instructional initiatives. Most recently, Klemcke served as assistant principal at Chandler and Crain Elementary Schools, leading instructional initiatives, supporting campus operations, and fostering positive learning environments. Prior to that, she served as the district's Career and Technical Education (CTE) Curriculum Coordinator and previously as an instructional coach at Crain Elementary School.
Earlier in her career, Klemcke spent 12 years as a classroom teacher in Houston ISD and Pasadena ISD.
Klemcke earned a Master of Education in Administration from Lamar University in Beaumont and a Bachelor of Science in Health from Texas A&M University.
Victoria ISD congratulates both Casso and Klemcke on their appointments and looks forward to their continued leadership in supporting the success of students, staff, and families at Torres and Crain Elementary Schools.