Our Board

Paul began his tenure at KAPS in 2002, the school's third full year of operation, in the role of Principal. He served in that role for 10 years and received his M.A. from The University of Texas at Austin while on sabbatical from his Principal duties. During his time at UT, Paul was privileged to serve as a KAPS Board Trustee for the first time. Paul continued his educational service as Chief Financial Officer for two separate central Texas ISDs. He also served in the role of Chief Academic Officer and also served as Interim Superintendent work. Paul now works for the Texas Education Agency in the Department of Grant Compliance and Administration. Paul believes that all students who enter the doors are budding lifelong scholars who should be uniquely challenged academically and provided for according to their individual needs and goals. Paul moved to Wimberley in 1999 and lives there with his beautiful partner, Lisa.

Joseph Smith is a dedicated scientist, entrepreneur, and community advocate with over three decades of experience in scientific research, business management, and educational support. Holding a Ph.D. in Biochemistry as well as a Molecular Biology degree from The University of Texas at Austin, Joseph has an extensive research background, including work in biomedical sciences that has been published in renowned, peer-reviewed international journals. As the founder, CEO and partner of multiple tech firms, he has provided strategic solutions for universities, healthcare organizations, and major Texas institutions, focusing on cutting-edge technologies and intelligent system design.

Joseph's passion for community building extends beyond his professional accomplishments. A former member of the U.S. Army’s Honor Guard, he has served in high-stakes roles in the Pentagon and D.C. that required integrity, discipline, and leadership—a foundation he brings to his commitment to KAPS. As a business owner, he has a deep understanding of financial management, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance, skills he looks forward to contributing as a board member.

Driven by a commitment to fostering inclusive, supportive environments, Joseph is invested in helping KAPS empower students academically and personally. As a parent of a KAPS junior and a prospective KAPS freshman, he shares the school’s mission to cultivate a safe, equitable, and stimulating environment for all students. He is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of emerging technologies, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, to enhance educational outcomes.



Board Member bio coming soon!

When I was finishing my undergraduate degree, I was placed at KAPS as a student teacher.  I immediately fell in love with the school, the staff, and the overall idea of community and education at KAPS.  After I graduated, I was offered a teaching position at KAPS. I spent a year teaching English and Creative Writing at KAPS, before taking a position at Texas State University.  I never forgot my time and KAPS and often told people in the community about the amazing things that KAPS had to offer students and the community as a whole.  I believe that is why, in part, my nieces attended KAPS and my nephew still does.  That is also why I am running for the KAPS School Board, to do what I can to support the school that still means so much to me and my family.

Board Member bio coming soon!

Nadine started her educational journey as a PK/K/1st elementary teacher followed by teaching opportunities in upper elementary, middle/high school, and as an adjunct professor. Nadine’s passion for education stems from being the ‘square peg in the round hole’ and she identifies with students at all levels who are faced with similar issues. Her roles in education span assistant principal, principalships, Gifted and Talented director, Curriculum and Instruction Director, Interim Superintendent, and Federal and State Funding. Nadine has also provided professional development as a national consultant to districts in Louisiana, Arkansas, Illinois, Missouri, South Carolina, and Texas with the focus on school turnaround. During her first principalship, with the team of a new Superintendent and Chief Financial Officer, and outstanding teachers, her district went from an F rating to a B rating in one year. Her training is in reading, math, and differentiated instruction and she is certified in dyslexia and Irlens screening. Being a lifelong learner, Nadine hopes that she can promote the love of learning to students and teachers as they follow their own educational pathways. Her Undergraduate and Masters were received from the University of Houston (now partnered with A&M) and her next learning curve will be a new certification and a venture into a doctorate program. Nadine is honored to serve on the board of Katherine Anne Porter School and her philosophy is to always “do what’s best for kids”. “Every student who walks the halls of KAPS deserves a challenging and academically rich environment designed to meet their individual goals.” Nadine’s biggest achievements (if asked) are her three wonderful children and their spouses, her two amazing grandchildren, and her current duty as mom to Honey (dog) and Katniss (cat).