Round Rock ISD -

Penny Oates has been named as the new director of Round Rock ISD’s Virtual Academy. 

Oates has more than three decades of experience in educational administration and teaching, most recently serving as the principal of C.D. Fulkes Middle School since 2023.

Throughout her tenure in campus leadership, Oates has prioritized coaching, collaboration and targeted support to her staff.

“I’m excited to partner with our families and high schools to provide this opportunity for students,” Oates said. “The Round Rock ISD Virtual Academy is such an innovative approach to meeting our diverse student needs and expanding learning opportunities.”

The Virtual Academy program is a new initiative that supports students learning from a hybrid or fully online learning environment. Oates said she is excited to lead the new program and expand it to serve more students each year. 

Of her 33 years in educational administration, Oates has spent nine in Round Rock ISD schools, including at Bluebonnet Elementary School and Callison Elementary School. 

“We are thrilled to have Mrs. Oates lead the Virtual Academy. I’m confident in her ability to support all five high schools as they navigate this first year. She will lead with collaboration, organization and create a growing positive environment with our virtual program teachers and counselors,” said Zac Oldham, Westwood Learning Community area superintendent. 

Oates holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a concentration in science and a master’s degree in educational policy and leadership, both from the Ohio State University. She will begin leading the Virtual Academy in July.