New BCISD principals for middle school, Shady Grove
(Left) Dr. Jennifer Caropepe will be the principal of Burnet Middle School starting in the 2025-26 academic year. (Right) Virginia Cassell will be the principal of Shady Grove Elementary School next year. Courtesy photos
The Burnet Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees announced two new principals for the 2025-26 school year, one at Shady Grove Elementary and the other at Burnet Middle School.
BURNET MIDDLE SCHOOL
Incoming Burnet Middle School Principal Dr. Jennifer Caropepe is currently the principal at Llano Independent School District’s Packsaddle Elementary School in Kingsland. She has been at LISD since 2017 and was also an assistant principal at Llano Junior High
“Dr. Caropepe brings successful principal experience at both the elementary and secondary
levels, giving her a well-rounded perspective on school leadership and student success,”
Burnet CISD Superintendent Aaron Peña said in a recent media release. “She is known for building strong systems, setting clear expectations, and being a highly visible and engaged leader. We are confident she will be a strong and steady presence at (Burnet Middle School).”
Caropepe completed her Bachelor of Arts at Texas Tech University and later a master’s degree in school administration at Lamar University in Southeast Texas. She received her Doctorate in Education from Nova Southeastern University.
SHADY GROVE ELEMENTARY
Incoming Shady Grove Principal Virginia “Ginger” Kassell is returning to BCISD from her current position as an assistant principal at LISD’s Packsaddle Elementary. During her previous stint with BCISD, she worked as a behavior instructor at R.J. Richey Elementary School, earning Teacher of the Year. Her career in education began in Georgetown ISD, where she taught the first grade from 2006-15.
“Ms. Kassell brings a strong background in early childhood education, a deep understanding of
developmentally appropriate practices, and a commitment to servant leadership,” Superintendent Peña said in the media release. “Her experience in student behavior, literacy, and numeracy stood out, as did her passion for working alongside staff to build a positive, supportive environment.”
Kassell completed both her Bachelor of Science and a master’s degree in educational leadership at Texas State University in San Marcos.