Head of School – Ricki Komiss, M.Ed.

Ricki Komiss became the Head of School at the Shlenker School of Congregation Beth Israel in July, 1998.  Now, almost twelve years later, Mrs. Komiss’s vision for Shlenker is expressed through the Shlenker tagline, Igniting a Spark in Every Child.  At Shlenker, teachers try to find the strengths and gifts for each child and plan lessons that will challenge minds and develop character.  To provide this environment, the Shlenker administrative staff and teachers have developed a collaborative school culture where creativity is fostered and teachers and students learn and work collaboratively.

Mrs. Komiss’s background includes having worked in the Houston Independent School District as a teacher, counselor, assistant principal, and principal.  Her experience as a principal in HISD included gifted and talented students, autistic students, bilingual/ESL students, and traditional students. Ricki received her Bachelor of Science degree at The University of Texas and her master’s degree in counseling at The University of Houston.  She later completed her mid-management certification at Houston Baptist University.

Currently, Mrs. Komiss is serving as Vice President of ISAS (Independent Schools Association of the Southwest), the accrediting agency for many private schools.  She also serves on the board of TANS (Texas Association of Non-Public Schools), and the board of PARDeS (Progressive Association of Reform Day Schools).  She is an active member of Congregation Beth Israel and participates in a variety of activities for the synagogue.

Mrs. Komiss is committed to making The Shlenker School a school of excellence.