Principal 

Karen Gipson 

I am excited to introduce myself as your new principal. My name is Karen Gipson, and I bring 23 years of experience in education, most recently serving as an Assistant Principal at Naaman Forest High School within Garland ISD. There, we achieved significant growth in STAAR data and an A-rating in College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR).

I hold a Bachelor's degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas. My career has been dedicated to ensuring all students have the opportunity to become productive citizens, and my passion for student development is the cornerstone of my work.

At Carver Elementary, my vision is to foster a culture of excellence, where scholars are empowered to think innovatively, challenge the status quo, and strive for personal growth. We are committed to continuous improvement, ensuring everyone endeavors to be better tomorrow than they are today.

On a personal note, I share my life with my husband, Thomas Gipson, Jr., Head Boys Basketball Coach at South Garland High School, and our four children: Thomas III (31), Trevis (26), Taylor (22), and Tyler (8), who attends the Classical Center at Vial Elementary School. Our family is deeply rooted in the educational community.

I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated teachers, staff, parents, and community members. My door is always open, and I am eager to hear your ideas and address your concerns.

Thank you for entrusting me with the privilege of leading this exceptional community. I am honored to serve as your principal and excited about the incredible possibilities ahead.

Assistant Principal

Teranee Berry

 

Dear Carver Elementary Families and Staff,

It is with great excitement and humility that I introduce myself as the new Assistant Principal of George Washington Carver Elementary. I recognize that joining a school community once the year has already begun can bring challenges, but I also know it presents opportunities to learn, grow, and build meaningful partnerships from day one.

I want to take a moment to express my respect and gratitude for the dedicated vice principal with whom I am exchanging places. Their work has left a lasting impact, and I hope to honor that foundation as I begin my journey with the Carver Tigers.

This year marks my 16th in education, with 11 of those years proudly spent in Garland ISD. Over the course of my career, I have served as a classroom teacher, Montessori educator, interventionist, math coach as a Campus Support Teacher, and most recently as an Assistant Principal. Each role has deepened my belief in the power of teamwork, high expectations, and student-centered learning.

Academically, I hold an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, both from Indiana University. I also earned my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas, where I graduated with a 4.0 GPA. These experiences have shaped not only my instructional foundation but also my commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in education.
Outside of my professional role, I am the proud mother of three wonderful children, all of whom attend Garland ISD schools. As both an educator and a parent in this district, I understand the importance of nurturing a supportive, safe, and inspiring environment for every child.

I am thrilled to now call myself a Tiger and to join a community that values excellence, collaboration, and heart. I look forward to learning alongside you, celebrating our students’ successes, and working together to ensure that Carver continues to thrive.
Thank you for welcoming me into your family—I cannot wait to meet each of you and to serve this incredible campus.

With Tiger Pride,

Teranee Berry
Assistant Principal
George Washington Carver Elementary