Dr. Paul Drake, the Superintendent of Chester Independent School District (I.S.D.), brings 20 years of experience to his leadership role. Throughout his career in education, he has made significant contributions as a teacher and coach for 8 years, including two years as the head basketball coach. Dr. Drake’s leadership experience also includes serving as an assistant principal at both the elementary and high school levels for a total of four years at Whitehouse I.S.D. In 2017, he became the principal of Livingston High School, a large 4A district serving around 1,150 students. After more than four years in that role, he transitioned to his current position as Superintendent of Chester I.S.D. in January 2022.
As Superintendent, Dr. Drake achieved a major milestone by successfully planning, organizing, and passing a bond for Chester I.S.D. for the first time in nearly 30 years, with the support of the school board, community, and staff. Under his leadership, the district celebrated multiple student successes, including participation in the State Science UIL competition and a historic achievement by the baseball team, which reached the state semi-finals for the first time in school history. Other notable student accomplishments during his tenure include successes in FFA and Elementary UIL Academics.
During his time as principal of Livingston High School, Dr. Drake helped the school rank in the top 25 in the Lone Star Cup for the first time and spearheaded the expansion of Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for students. He also played a key role in the creation of new clubs and organizations, including a State Championship-winning Robotics team, led by their dedicated sponsor.
Dr. Drake earned his bachelor's degree from Stephen F. Austin in 2004, his master's degree in educational leadership from Lamar University in 2011, and his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Lamar in 2016.
Outside of his professional career, Dr. Drake is an active member of First Baptist Church in Livingston, Texas, and enjoys working with youth sports. He and his wife, Briana, have been married since 2007 and are the proud parents of their 14-year-old son, Paxton, who is entering the 9th grade. Dr. Drake’s passion for education continues to drive his work and his commitment to the success of students.