Susan Bailey will take the helm as Girls Athletic Coordinator for students in grades 7-12 this fall. She has also been named Head Girls Cross Country Head Coach and will continue to serve as Girls Track and Field Head Coach, a position she has held since 2008.

Bailey has served as an Assistant Girls Cross Country Coach since she joined the district in 2005. During her tenure, the cross country team continued its winning tradition with three consecutive state championships, and the track and field team won four district championship over the past five years.

"Coach Bailey's enthusiasm for all sports in Highland Park is apparent," said Johnny Ringo, who was named HPISD Athletic Director earlier this month. "She is an outstanding role model for the young women in our schools and is a great addition to the HPISD athletics leadership team."

Bailey has taught geometry at Highland Park High School since 2005, and she was honored as HPHS 2009-10 teacher of the year. Her previous experience includes six years as an algebra and geometry teacher, Boys and Girls Cross Country Head Coach, Girls Track and Field Head Coach and Girls Basketball Assistant Coach at Mabank ISD's Mabank High School.

Bailey is succeeding the previous Girls Athletic Director and Head Girls Cross Country Coach, Jerry Sutterfield, who retired in May. 

"I am really excited about the opportunity to work with Coach Ringo and Coach Allen to continue the tradition of excellence for our student-athletes," Bailey said. "I know I have big shoes to fill, and I feel so very fortunate to have worked with Coach Sutterfield for eight years. He taught me so much, and I will always be grateful for his wisdom and constant support."

She earned her bachelor's degree in 1990 from Texas A&M University and her master's degree in educational leadership in 2010 from Texas A&M University - Commerce.  

Story and photo courtesy of HPISD