Her Story
About Paula
Paula Mickle, M.Ed., CAS, is an Assistant Principal with Spring ISD in Houston, Texas, bringing more than 18 years of experience in education and student support services. She currently serves in campus leadership after previously working as a Special Education Coordinator and Special Education Teacher within the district. Her work is centered on ensuring that students with diverse learning needs receive appropriate services, meaningful academic access, and supportive school environments that promote both achievement and personal growth.
She began her professional journey in social services, supporting children and adults with disabilities in community-based settings before transitioning into education. After becoming a paraprofessional in special education, she entered teaching through an alternative certification program and joined Spring ISD as a classroom educator. She later earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education with a concentration in autism from Lamar University, followed by principal certification, which expanded her pathway into instructional leadership and district-level coordination.
Throughout her career, Mickle has focused on special education, autism support, restorative discipline, teacher coaching, and strong parent partnerships. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration with educators, hands-on instructional support, and building trust with families to improve student outcomes. She has worked across all campuses in her district in various capacities and is currently engaged in an aspiring principals program, continuing her progression toward expanded school leadership roles while maintaining a strong commitment to inclusive, student-centered education.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Paula
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a lifelong passion for education that began in early childhood, inspired by Laura Ingalls Wilder and a desire to become a teacher. Although my path to the classroom included several detours and I entered the profession in my late 30s, I remained committed to that goal. A pivotal experience in my life was becoming a parent to a child with disabilities, which became my “school of hard knocks” and deeply shaped my perspective as an educator. This personal journey allows me to connect with parents on a more meaningful level, as I can genuinely relate to their experiences. My motivation has always been to ensure that all children, whether gifted and talented or receiving special education services, are given equitable opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take,” which has encouraged me to approach opportunities with confidence and simply go for it. I have learned that the most meaningful growth often comes from stepping into roles or challenges I never initially imagined for myself. I am currently in a position I never expected to hold, yet it has become deeply rewarding. I often describe my work as the hardest job you will ever love, as it is demanding but also incredibly fulfilling and purposeful.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are supporting children’s growth, building strong relationships, and fostering connection. Professionally, I am committed to ensuring that all students—especially those in special education and gifted programs—have the opportunities and support they need to succeed. I believe in being present and collaborative with teachers and working closely with parents so they feel engaged and valued in their child’s education. Personally, I value family deeply and enjoy spending time with my husband of nearly 28 years, as well as our family activities, including sports, fishing, camping, and time with my grandchild.
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