Katy ISD Superintendent Ken Gregorski announced on October 29 that experienced educator and administrator Lori Maurer as the founding principal of Elementary #49, the district's newest school, set to open in fall 2027. As the school's first principal, Maurer will help establish its campus culture, traditions and community connections ahead of its fall 2027 opening.

“Principal Maurer brings more than a decade of leadership experience in Katy ISD to this new role,” Gregorski said. “Her commitment to academic excellence, data-driven leadership and building meaningful relationships with families will help establish a strong foundation for Elementary #49.”

Maurer will assume her new role on January 4, 2027, transitioning from her current position as principal of Morton Ranch Elementary.

“I’m honored to lead Elementary #49 as we open our doors and begin building a new school community,” Maurer said. “Opening a school in Katy ISD is a dream come true, and I look forward to making a difference in our students’ lives, creating lasting traditions and building strong connections with our students, families and staff.”

Maurer has served as principal of Morton Ranch Elementary since 2023, leading the campus’s instructional and operational efforts. During her tenure, she has focused on continuous improvement, student achievement and data-informed instruction while fostering strong relationships with students, staff and families.

Maurer began her career in Katy ISD in 2013 as a math and science teacher at WoodCreek Elementary. She became an instructional coach in 2016 before serving as assistant principal at Mayde Creek Elementary and later Rhoads Elementary. She holds both a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies and a master of education degree in educational leadership from the University of Houston-Victoria.

Elementary #49 is under construction on Pitts Road in the northeastern portion of the Sunterra community. The school will serve families in the district’s fast-growing northwest quadrant. The new campus is part of the voter-approved 2023 Katy ISD Bond.