Administration
Highland Park High School Administrative Team
Jeremy Gilbert, HPHS Principal
(214) 780-3708
[email protected]
Gilbert has been with HPISD since 2008 when he was initially named principal at Hyer Elementary School, a position he held for ten years before going on to be principal at Highland Park Middle School for two years. His career in education began in 1998 as an elementary school teacher in Richardson ISD. He later served the school district as assistant principal and a principal for RISD’s Wallace Elementary for four years prior to his arrival in HPISD. He received his master’s in education administration from the University of North Texas and his bachelor’s from Texas A&M University.
“When I joined HPISD twelve years ago, I knew right away that I found my school home,” HPHS Principal Jeremy Gilbert said. “The unique partnerships enjoyed among our talented teachers, supportive parents, and our loving community members help make our district a special place to teach and to learn. The honor of serving as Principal of Highland Park High School is nothing short of a dream come true for me. I am excited to build upon the long standing tradition of excellence established at HPHS as we prepare each Scot to 'Enter to learn. Go forth to serve.'”
Administrative Assistant: Mari Schaefer (214) 780-3708 [email protected]
Dr. Redman, a member of the Highland Park High School staff since 2012, has previously served as a science teacher and as an administrator in both Frisco ISD and Richardson ISD.
"As a former STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) principal, Erica brings significant insight and knowledge and will serve as an excellent resource for our teachers and students through her instructional leadership," Principal Walter Kelly says.
Originally from South Louisiana, where most of her family still resides, she earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Southwestern Louisiana in 1999, as well as a master's degree in Education Administration in 2004, superintendent certification in 2009, and doctorate in Educational Administration in 2018, all from Texas A & M - Commerce
Dr. Redman says, "I am honored to serve the staff, students and families within this community and I hope to be able to support the excellent instruction that takes place here."
She lives in Richardson with her husband, Matt, also in public education, and her three stepsons.
Mr. Ortiz graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. While at the University of Texas at Austin he also participated in the UTeach Program, a nationally recognized teacher preparation program, and earned a minor in Education. He earned his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from the University of North Texas.
Mr. Ortiz has been in education since 2007. He has taught in Richardson ISD, Frisco ISD, and McKinney ISD in the roles of Chemistry, Pre-AP Chemistry, and AP Chemistry. He began his career in educational administration in 2013 as an Assistant Principal in McKinney ISD. Prior to joining the Highland Park High School Family, he spent four years as the Middle School and High School Principal of Colegio Jorge Washington in Cartagena, one of the premier American International Private Schools in Colombia.
“I am happy to have the opportunity to join and serve the Highland Park community. Throughout my time in education I have found it rewarding to work together with parents and teachers in order to help young people grow and achieve their potential. I consider it an honor to be able to add my contribution to the legacy of Highland Park High School.”
Mr. Ortiz is joined in the community by his wife, Aime, and his four children.
Administrative Assistant: Stephanie Kilgore (214) 780-3723 [email protected]
Lewis brings multiple years of experience in education to Highland Park High School. Most recently, he was the assistant principal at Sherman High School in Sherman ISD where he has served as an administrator since 2018. Previously, he was a teacher and coach at Garland's Sam Houston Middle School for 10 years.
"His positive attitude and his commitment to servant leadership will have an immediate impact on the climate and culture of Highland Park High School, said Principal Jeremy Gilbert. "He prides himself on building meaningful and supportive relationships with students and with teachers."
Lewis graduated with a bachelor of science degree from University of North Texas and has a master's in education administration from Lamar University.
Administrative Assistant: Lisa Leal (214) 780-3714 [email protected]
Shumate comes to Highland Park High School from Arkansas, where she was the assistant principal/dean of students at Belle Point Center: A New Tech Academy since 2015. A native Texan, born in Dallas, Shumate began her educational career in Midland ISD where she served in the roles of collegiate coach for the district, assistant principal and English department chair and teacher at Midland Freshman High School.
"Michelle Shumate is an experienced administrator and teacher that brings a wealth of instructional knowledge with her to Highland Park High School," said Gilbert. "Having served as an assistant principal and dean of students, Ms. Shumate is an accomplished administrator with a vast array of talents that are going to make a positive contribution to our learning community."
Shumate has an associate of arts in liberal arts from Midland College and a bachelor of arts in English literature as well as a master's in educational leadership from the University of Texas-Permian Basin. She is excited to join the majority of her family here in the Metroplex.
Administrative Assistant: Aeryn Wager (214) 780-3709 [email protected]
Mr. Gray received his undergraduate degree from the University of Central Oklahoma and his Masters in Educational Administration from the University of North Texas. He began his teaching career as a first-grade physical education teacher in Harrah, Oklahoma, and he has taught secondary health, and biology. He comes to HPISD from Winfree Academy Charter School in North Richland Hills where he served as Principal. He previously served as an assistant principal at Richardson High School and as Principal at Westwood Junior High Math, Science and Leadership Magnet School in the Richardson ISD.
Mr. Gray looks forward to supporting HPHS students and faculty as well as building positive relationships with all of HPISD's educational stakeholders.
Administrative Assistant: Lisa Henly (214-780-3710) [email protected]