Excitement and energy for the 2025-2026 school year is building. The Royse City ISD School Board approved a slate of exceptional leaders for key campus positions. Each was unanimously approved and will transition to their new roles over the summer.
MELISSA HARVEY PIONEERS WORTHY FATE HIGH SCHOOL AS FOUNDING PRINCIPAL
With 22 years of experience in education, Melissa Harvey has been named principal for future Worthy Fate High School. Mrs. Harvey was instrumental in the opening of Bobby Summers Middle School where she now serves as principal. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Hiring principals prior to the opening of a new campus allows important time to plan and prepare for the future. Mrs. Harvey will be deeply involved in construction and personnel planning for the new comprehensive high school. Royse City ISD will post the position of Bobby Summers Middle School Principal in search of the next leader.
Superintendent Dr. Amy Anderson shared, “Melissa Harvey is the quintessential leader to establish Worthy Fate High School. Her remarkable rapport with Bobby Summers Middle School families and her innate connection to the Fate community make her an ideal choice. We are eager to witness her collaborative spirit as she forges new traditions and ignites Wolverine Pride!”
SCOTT MERRY WELCOMED TO LEAD ROYSE CITY HIGH SCHOOL WITH PASSION
Coming from Sheldon ISD, 20 year educator Scott Merry has been approved as Royse City High School Principal. Mr. Merry currently serves as an Associate Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at C.E. King High School. He also previously served as an associate principal in Galena Park ISD’s North Shore Senior High School. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Texas State University. Early years in his educational career included world geography teacher, mentor teacher and coaching before entering administration in 2019. He follows outgoing principal Brooke McMaster who is moving out of state.
“The caliber of candidates vying for the Royse City High School principalship underscores the school’s stellar reputation,” remarked Superintendent Anderson. “Mr. Merry’s unwavering focus on students and his dedication to creating pathways for success will undoubtedly enrich the RCHS Bulldog Family. We are thrilled to welcome him.”
AMANDA PAYNE SELECTED TO CHAMPION EARLY CHILDHOOD SERVICES
Royse City ISD is proud to welcome veteran school leader Amanda Payne for the newly expanded position of Director of Early Childhood Services. Joining from nearby Rockwall ISD, Mrs. Payne has 27 years of service in elementary teaching and administration. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Texas A&M University-Commerce. This position will supervise and support the leaders at both the district’s employee daycare program and the Glenda Arnold early childhood center.
“Amanda Payne has a profound passion for early childhood learning,” shared Superintendent Anderson. “Nurturing a love for learning in our youngest students is paramount, and we are confident that Mrs. Payne will make a significant impact on our students and their families. Her experience in providing support on campus and leadership development will greatly benefit Royse City ISD.”