Kathy L. Scherler, Ph.D.
Dr. Kathy L. Scherler, Ph.D., is an accomplished educator, mentor, and leadership coach with over two decades of experience in teaching, administration, and professional development. Beginning her career as a music educator in public schools, she taught Pre-K through 12th grade, learning to engage students and inspire learning through their own interests. Her dedication to fostering creativity and motivation in students laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to coaching and mentorship. Dr. Scherler holds a Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of North Texas, as well as superintendent and principal certifications from The University of Texas at Arlington.
Transitioning into educational leadership, Dr. Scherler co-founded several innovative programs, including the International Baccalaureate Program at Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas ISD and the I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and Visual and Performing Arts in Fort Worth, Texas—the city’s first visual and performing arts high school. She also spent a decade as a higher education professor, preparing music education students for teacher certification and fostering the next generation of educators. Her work has consistently focused on developing leaders, promoting equity, and building sustainable programs that empower teachers and students alike.
Currently, Dr. Scherler serves as the Texas Mentorship Fellow and Texas Strategic Staffing Lead at the Region 9 Education Service Center in Wichita Falls, Texas. She leads a TEA-funded statewide mentorship initiative that provides stipends and professional training for teacher mentors, helping districts implement effective support systems for new teachers. In addition to her leadership work, she is an International Coaching Federation member and active volunteer with organizations such as the Kelly Way Foundation and Mosaic Foundation. Dr. Scherler’s career is defined by her philosophy of “planting seeds,” investing in long-term growth, and empowering individuals to discover their strengths and achieve lasting transformation.
• Ph.D. in Music Education
• Superintendent and Principal Certification
• International Coaching Federation Certification
• University of North Texas – Ph.D., Music Education
• East Texas State University, Commerce, TX – Master’s Degree in Music
• Cameron University, Lawton – Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education
• Influential Women 2026
• National Association of Teachers of Singing
• Texas Music Educators Association
• North Texas International Coaching Federation
• The Kelly Way Foundation
• Mosaic Foundation (Dallas) - Summer Music Camp for children of women in human trafficking recovery
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to “planting seeds.” Over decades of teaching and mentoring, I have found immense joy in seeing former students and mentees thrive and stay connected. Coaching allows me to empower others to discover answers within themselves, fostering transformation that comes from their own insight and growth.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
It’s important to focus on nurturing and empowering others while developing your own expertise. Success is not only about personal achievement but about fostering growth in those around you. Embrace coaching and mentoring as ways to amplify impact in education and leadership.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A significant challenge in education today is recruiting and retaining quality teachers, particularly in small or rural districts. Teachers often struggle in their first years, and mentorship is crucial to support their growth and prevent attrition. An exciting opportunity is the TEA-funded mentorship stipends and statewide training, which professionalize mentoring and provide sustainable support for both new and experienced educators.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value empowerment, lifelong learning, collaboration, creativity, sensitivity in leading change, service to communities, and promoting educational equity. I strive to invest in people’s growth while supporting them in realizing their full potential.