Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD is pleased to announce that Dan Russell has been named the new principal of Ed Willkie Middle School. Russell has 18 years of experience in public education and currently serves as an assistant principal at Chisholm Trail High School. 

Throughout his career, Russell has served in a variety of positions including middle school history teacher, high school social studies and science teacher, a campus coordinator, head soccer coach, football offensive coordinator and an assistant principal at both the middle school and high school levels. 

“Dan Russell brings a wealth of administrative experience at multiple levels,” said Walter Berringer, Executive Director for Secondary Services in EMS ISD. “His approach to leadership will continue the culture of positivity on the Ed Willkie campus while ensuring student growth and achievement through providing personal opportunities that meet student interests and needs.” 

Russell earned a bachelor's degree in history and secondary education from Oklahoma State University, a master's degree in administration from California University of Pennsylvania and his principal certification from Lamar University.  

“I am so excited to get started as the next principal of Ed Willkie Middle School and the opportunity it provides me to continue working with the amazing Badger students and families,” Russell said. “Ed Willkie Middle School serves as a point of pride for the neighborhoods it serves as well as EMS ISD, and in this new role, I look forward to continuing to strengthen our community ‘The Willkie Way.’ ” 

Russell has been married to his college sweetheart, Kaylan, for 18 years and they have two active and happy daughters, Amelia (14) and Sally (10). When not at school, he enjoys playing guitar and traveling to the Russell family farm in Maine, where his family enjoys hiking and kayaking.