Abilene ISD is proud to announce that Ashley West has been named principal of Craig Middle School. West, who currently serves as Dean of Instruction at Cooper High School, will officially begin her new role at the start of the 2025-26 school year.
“Ashley is a student-centered leader who understands the needs of both teachers and learners,” Superintendent Dr. John Kuhn said. “Her proven ability to strengthen instruction and drive positive student achievement makes her an excellent fit for Craig Middle School. I look forward to supporting Ashley and the Colts in their next chapter together.”
West brings 14 years of secondary education experience to her new role in AISD, including a strong background in both classroom instruction and campus leadership. She began her career in AISD in 2011 as a math and engineering teacher at ATEMS. In 2017, she moved into district-level leadership as Secondary Mathematics Coordinator, facilitating curriculum alignment across all middle and high schools. Since 2019, West has served in multiple leadership roles at Cooper High School, where she currently supports all instructional staff and academic counselors as Dean of Instruction. West was recently named the 2024-25 Region 14 Assistant Principal of the Year by the Texas Association of Secondary Principals (TASSP).
“I’m truly excited to join the Craig Middle School community,” West said. “I’m committed to honoring the strong foundation already in place while working alongside the incredible staff, students, and families to support continued growth and success. I’m also deeply grateful for Cooper High School and the dedicated educators and remarkable students who have made the past 6 years so meaningful. The Cougars will always hold a special place in my heart.”
West holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Abilene Christian University and a master’s degree in education from Sul Ross State University. She succeeds longtime Craig principal Deb Stewart, who is relocating out of state to be closer to family.