Norman, OK — The Norman Public Schools Board of Education has approved two leadership appointments for the 2025-2026 school year, welcoming a new principal to Lakeview Elementary and a new assistant principal intern to Irving Middle School.
Yasmin Hoover has been named the next principal of Lakeview Elementary, replacing longtime principal Paula Palermo, who is retiring at the end of the school year. Hoover brings 21 years of experience in public education, all within Norman Public Schools, and is a proud graduate of the district.
She currently serves as principal of Roosevelt Elementary and previously held roles as assistant principal at Monroe Elementary and classroom teacher at McKinley and Adams Elementary Schools. Hoover was named Site Teacher of the Year in 2008 and was a finalist for the district’s Teacher of the Year honor in 2012. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in educational administration, curriculum and supervision, both from the University of Oklahoma. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher.
“Yasmin Hoover exemplifies the dedication and passion we value in Norman Public Schools,” said Dr. Stephanie Williams, executive director of student services. “Her deep roots in our district and her proven track record as both an educator and a leader make her an excellent fit for Lakeview Elementary.”
Christel Wallace-Wesley has been named assistant principal intern at Irving Middle School. Wallace-Wesley is currently a teacher at Whittier Middle School and brings 18 years of experience in public education, with the last 15 being in Norman Public Schools. A graduate of the district, she attended Irving Middle School herself as a student, making this new role a meaningful full-circle moment.
She holds a degree in elementary education from Langston University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Oklahoma. Wallace-Wesley was named Adams Site Teacher of the Year in 2018 and received the Norman Masonic Lodge Teacher of the Year award in 2019.
“Christel’s passion for students and her commitment to continuous growth as an educator are evident in everything she does,” Williams said. “We’re excited to see her leadership continue to develop at Irving Middle School, where she once walked the halls as a student and her passion for education first took root.”