May 23, 2025—Janea’ Dennis, associate principal at Cypress Woods High School, was named the principal at Smith Middle School on May 23. Dennis replaces Becky Koop, who will retire in June.  

Dennis has 17 years of experience in education. She began her career as an English teacher at Aldine Eisenhower High School in 2001 before serving in the same role at Cypress Ranch High School starting in 2011. While at Cypress Ranch, Dennis also served as a campus instructional coach, team lead and the English department chair. Dennis was named the director of instruction helping teacher at Cypress Lakes High School before being named an assistant principal at Aragon Middle School in 2018. She then returned to Cypress Ranch to serve as an assistant principal in 2022. Dennis was named to her current role at Cypress Woods in 2024.

Dennis holds multiple certifications, including her Principal Certification from Lamar University, and has served on various district and campus committees. She has also participated in the CFISD Aspiring Principal Institute and has served as a summer school principal.

Dennis earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Houston and her Master of Science in Psychology from the University of Phoenix.

“I am beyond honored to join the amazing Smith Middle School community as principal,” Dennis said. “It’s a privilege to lead a campus with such a strong legacy, dedicated staff and an amazing student body. I look forward to forging relationships with students, staff, parents and the community, and continue the legacy of academic excellence!”