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Leaders Who Inspire U: Shannon Byrne, Principal — UPAD Middle School

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The image shows a woman with long, wavy blonde hair wearing a black top, standing in front of a teal background with the text "LEADERS WHO INSPIRE U" and "SHANNON BYRNE" displayed.
Leaders Who Inspire U: Shannon Byrne, Principal — UPAD Middle School
Communications Dept

There's a reason educators call the middle school years the most critical stretch of a student's journey. The habits formed, the identity shaped, the sense of belonging — or the lack of it — during these years can follow a young person for a lifetime.

At University Prep Art & Design Middle School, Principal Shannon Byrne takes that responsibility seriously. And she's built a culture to match.

Four Words. One Culture.

At UPAD Middle, the culture statement isn't a poster on a wall. It's a living commitment:

"Feel Joy. Be You. Create Change. No Opt Out."

Every word matters. Scholars are encouraged to find genuine joy in learning — not just compliance. They are seen and celebrated for who they are, not who anyone else wants them to be. They are expected to use their creativity and voice to make a difference. And no one — no one — gets to sit on the sidelines. No Opt Out is both a challenge and a promise: every scholar is in, every day.

Building the Bridge

UPAD Middle sits at a powerful intersection — connecting the wonder and creativity of the elementary years to the rigor and purpose of the UPAD High School experience. Byrne's work is to ensure scholars not only cross that bridge but are strengthened by it.

The UPAD tradition of arts-infused learning doesn't pause in the middle grades. Under Byrne's leadership, scholars continue to develop their artistic voice while deepening their academic foundations — building the kind of confidence and identity that will carry them into high school and beyond.

A Culture of Belonging

The image shows a woman with long, wavy blonde hair wearing a black top, standing in front of a teal background with the text "LEADERS WHO INSPIRE U" and "SHANNON BYRNE" displayed.

At UPAD Middle, every scholar is expected to grow — and every scholar is supported in doing so. Byrne fosters a school culture where academic challenge and personal connection go hand in hand. Her scholars know they belong. They know they are capable. And they know their principal believes it.

That belief is contagious. It shows up in classrooms, in hallways, and in the students who arrive at UPAD High School ready to lead.

Shannon Byrne is doing the quiet, essential work of making sure the middle years are a launchpad — not a stumbling block — for every scholar she serves.

That's what leadership looks like. That's a leader who inspires U.

See UPAD Middle School for Yourself

We are enrolling scholars for the 2026–2027 school year. Experience the culture that makes UPAD Middle School a place where scholars thrive — inside and outside the classroom.