Julie McManus

Superintendent Lynn Torres has announced that Julie McManus will take the helm as the new Lufkin High School principal in the fall.

Dr. Andre Emmons, who is currently serving as the principal, is taking another position with the district as the Executive Director of Operations and Safety.

McManus graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. Her undergraduate education and teaching certification were both focused on special education services for students. In addition, she received a Master of Arts in Counseling from SFASU. She continued her education and received credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor. After completing her counseling certification, McManus earned her Principal Certification from SFASU. She has 22 years of experience in education, with the last 19 years with Lufkin ISD, serving as a teacher, counselor, Director of Counseling and Associate Principal of Curriculum and Instruction.

“I am thrilled for the opportunity to serve and lead Lufkin High School students and staff,” McManus said. I believe in working hard and celebrating successes along the way as a student-focused and relationship-driven leader. I am grateful for our wonderful and committed staff at Lufkin High School and look forward to the ’23-’24 school year and many years beyond.”

Torres said, “I have no doubt that Julie McManus is capable of leading this campus well. She has been an asset to this district in many different positions, and she will excel at this challenge. I know that she will use her expertise to keep Lufkin High School the best. She will work to ensure that students and staff are successful.

“Two facts to note: she was announced as principal on her birthday, and she becomes the first female principal of Lufkin High School. I am thrilled to celebrate her and her leadership.”

McManus is married to J.T. McManus, the LHS head basketball coach, and they have two children: Macy, a student at LHS, and Tripp, a Lufkin Middle School student.