Dr. Christina Bradford, principal of J.W. Williams Middle School in Rockwall ISD, has been named the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals’ 2027 State Middle School Principal of the Year.
Bradford has led Williams since 2021. In announcing the honor, Rockwall ISD highlighted her work supporting students, developing staff and guiding the campus to consecutive A ratings under Texas’ accountability system.
Her initiatives include New Kids on the Block, an onboarding program that helps new employees build relationships and learn campus expectations. The district also credited her with expanding positive-behavior recognition and arranging individual counselor meetings with 1,300 students to better understand their interests, strengths and needs.
Superintendent Dr. John Villarreal praised Bradford’s relationships with students, families and employees.
“She leads with purpose, partners with parents, supports her teachers and helps students grow as learners and leaders,” Villarreal said in the district announcement.
Before becoming principal at Williams, Bradford led Quest Academy and served as an assistant principal at Rockwall-Heath High School and Cain Middle School. She began her education career as a teacher and coach in Mesquite ISD.
She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University-Commerce and her doctorate from Liberty University.
TASSP’s selection process begins with peer nominations and regional recognition across its 20 Texas regions. Finalists interview with the association’s Principal Image Committee, which considers leadership and job performance.
Bradford will be honored June 7, 2027, at the Jostens Night of the Stars Awards Dinner at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas. The event precedes TASSP’s Summer Workshop, scheduled for June 8–10.
