Principal Crystal Kemp
Crystal Kemp is a Richardson ISD home-grown educator and leader. With more than 18 years of experience in RISD she has established a strong reputation for building systems, cultivating meaningful relationships, and creating school environments where students and staff thrive. Her leadership reflects a balanced approach that combines instructional expertise, operational excellence, and a commitment to developing people.
Throughout her career, Kemp has served in a variety of leadership roles across RISD, including Associate Principal at Berkner High School, Assistant Principal at Parkhill Junior High, Assistant Principal Intern at Pearce High School, and Summer School Principal at Forest Meadow Middle School. Her impact and leadership were recognized when she was named RISD Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year for the 2022–2023 school year.
Kemp began her educational journey in athletics as a coach and coordinator, where she developed a passion for mentorship, leadership development, and helping students reach their full potential. Those experiences continue to influence her leadership philosophy, which is grounded in teamwork, accountability, and strong relationships.
She earned a Master of Science in Sports Leadership from Concordia University Chicago, a Master of Science in Athletic Administration from Ohio University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Speech, Language, and Hearing from the University of Kansas, where she was a standout student-athlete and member of the women’s basketball team.
Known as a collaborative and student-centered leader, Kemp is committed to fostering a culture of excellence, empowering others, and creating opportunities that support student success. She believes strong school communities are built through shared leadership, high expectations, and ensuring every student has access to the experiences and support needed to grow and succeed.
Assistant Principal - Desiree May
My name is Desiree May, and I am excited to continue to serve as the 6th Grade Assistant Principal here at Forest Meadow Middle School! This is my 11th year in RISD and in education. Before becoming an administrator, I taught back and forth between 5th and 6th Grade Math with some years including Science for 8 years. I have 2 sons who attend school in RISD, and my husband works in a school district north of Richardson. I grew up in RISD, attending Skyview Elementary, Forest Meadow, and Lake Highlands High School as a student myself. I love what I do and am so proud that I can serve the community and district that was my home.
Assistant Principal - Helen Barton
Mrs. Barton is entering her 16th year in public education, 12th year in Richardson ISD, and 2nd year at Forest Meadow Middle School. She is excited to be the 8th Grade Assistant Principal, while also supervising the Reading Language Arts and ESL Departments. Mrs. Barton believes in the transformative power of literacy for all students as a way to build a society of empowered, critical thinkers ready to affect meaningful change. On any given day, you might see her walking, running, or biking through the Duck Creek area where she currently lives with her husband, her two kids, Emery and Milo, and her dog, Winston.