Davidson Elementary
Meet Our Teachers
My name is Jessie Miller, and I am the proud principal of Davidson Elementary. I began my career in Katy 24 years ago as a fourth-grade teacher at Hutsell Elementary. In 2001, I had the pleasure of opening King Elementary as a fourth-grade teacher. In my 10 years at RKE, I served as a fourth-grade teacher, team leader, and assistant principal. In 2011, I transitioned from the campus to the central office and served as the Elementary ELA Curriculum Coordinator, and in January of 2017, I was honored to begin my journey as the principal of Davidson Elementary. Davidson truly holds a special place in my heart, and it is an honor to serve our students, teachers, and families. I believe that all students can learn and reach their full potential by engaging in meaningful learning experiences, building strong relationships with their peers and teachers, and knowing they are both physically and emotionally safe. Outside of school, I am a wife and mom to three boys. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development from Texas State and hold Master’s Degrees in Elementary Education and Educational Leadership from The University of St. Thomas. I love to read, travel, and spend time with my friends and family. I am looking forward to an amazing year!
My name is Lisa Knowles, and I am honored to be an Assistant Principal at KDE. This is my 24th year in education. Before becoming an Assistant Principal, I was classroom teacher, Challenge teacher, ESL teacher and Instructional Coordinator. I have worked at Creech Elementary, Exley Elementary, and helped open Davidson Elementary in 2014. I am passionate about teaching and supporting students and other educators, and am committed to building relationships and providing a safe learning environment for our students and staff. I am married and have four children. I am a native Houstonian and graduated from Houston Baptist University with a bachelor's degree and Lamar University with a Master of Education in Administration. In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends. I look forward to working collaboratively with our families, students, staff, and community members to continue making KDE a great place to be.
My name is Rhiannon James. This is my 20th year in education and my 6th year at Davidson. I have been the Instructional Coordinator for the past two years and was a Third-Grade teacher before that. I love working at KDE where we have the best students, parents, and educators. I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Northwestern State University and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Texas at Arlington. I have taught Special Education and every elementary grade level except for Kindergarten. I began my teaching career at Katy ISD at Mayde Creek Elementary, then taught in East Texas and Louisiana before returning to Katy. I feel very strongly about the future of our students and that each one should have access to the best education possible. I have been married for over 20 years and have a 15-year-old daughter, Haisley, who will be a 10th grader at Tompkins. In my free time I enjoy traveling, reading, and outdoor activities.
My name is Kathryn Smith, and I am proud to be one of the originals at KDE, having been here since the school first opened. Before moving to Texas, I lived in Kansas—the home of the Jayhawks, Wildcats, and sunflowers. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching students ranging from 3 years old through 6th grade. My true passion lies in empowering educators to meet the diverse needs of their students and foster their growth as learners.
I’ve been happily married to my best friend for over 30 years (and counting). Together, we’re big fans of sporting events, especially softball, and we are loyal Kansas City Chiefs supporters. We have three incredible kids: Drew, a talented musician; Gabby, who recently graduated from the University of Houston; and Ella Kate, a senior at Katy High who is verbally committed to playing softball at the University of Oklahoma.
Outside of work, I love traveling, reading, and spending time with friends and family. You’ll often find me at a softball game. I’m excited to continue working with our amazing staff and to support the success of our students.
My name is Josette Snead. I always knew I wanted to work with children. I began my journey at the University of Houston where I received a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a Minor in Psychology. This is my twenty-sixth year as an Educator. I have worked in the Private Sector, Alief ISD and have spent the past twenty-five years in Katy ISD. I have taught Pre-K, Kinder and First Grade at Golbow Elementary. I joined KDE nine years ago as an ESL teacher. I continued my education at St. Thomas University and received a Master's Degree in School Counseling. Six years ago, I was blessed with the opportunity to become the KDE Counselor. I believe in the power of positivity, gratitude and kindness. It is my passion to serve KDE students, families and our amazing staff. I am looking forward to helping our dragons grow socially and emotionally. I am a Texas girl through and through, as I was born and raised in Houston, moved to Katy after I got married and now live in Sealy. I am the proud mother of two adult children and four fur babies. I enjoy being in nature, at the beach and listening to music. I cherish my time with my family and friends. I am excited about this school year and look forward to building relationships with all of you.