RISD Appoints Derica Turner as New Audelia Creek Elementary Principal

Richardson Independent School District has announced Derica Turner as the new principal for Audelia Creek Elementary. Turner brings more than 15 years of experience in public education to the position, having served in various leadership roles at both the campus and district levels.

Her previous positions include Executive Director of Special Education, Assistant Principal, Instructional Coach, and classroom teacher. In her role as Executive Director of Special Education for Cedar Hill ISD, she led system-wide coaching and professional learning initiatives. These efforts implemented operational improvements that increased instructional time and strengthened support services for students and staff.

Turner’s leadership history includes contributing to increased teacher retention, improved instructional consistency, and expanded family and community engagement. She is recognized for her ability to build high-performing teams, mentor educators, and create systems that support student success and staff growth. Her expertise spans instructional leadership, talent development, strategic planning, and organizational management.

She holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of North Texas. Turner is certified as a Principal for grades EC through 12. She also holds Special Education, ESL, and Generalist certifications.

Turner is driven by a passion for educational excellence and servant leadership. She remains dedicated to empowering educators, supporting students, and creating learning environments where all individuals can thrive. Her stated purpose as an educator is believing in the power of schools to change lives and create opportunities for all children.