Meet the Principal

David Lee was born of immigrant parents from South Korea and is living proof of the impact that teachers and a strong education can make creating opportunities that can be life-changing. A graduate of Baylor University with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and minor in Asian Studies, he started his career as a Dallas ISD alternative certification intern in 2007 and has been a part of Dallas ISD for the past 19 years. At Franklin D. Roosevelt High School, Lee was a science teacher, department chair, and master teacher. During his time at Roosevelt, Lee developed the district science curriculum and was a district test writer, and later was a trainer for math and science alternative certification interns.

Lee went on to serve as assistant principal at Kimball High School. He was able to transform Kimball's STEM Magnet program in partnership with the Mountain View College engineering department, which allowed students to take 30 hours of dual credit courses to earn a level 2 certification in mechatronics. The Kimball mechatronics pathway later developed into the Kimball E-Tech collegiate pathway in mechatronics. Lee was also able to lead the National Academy Foundation program of hospitality and engineering to both be NAF distinguished academies.

As the principal of Hector P. Garcia Middle School for the past six years, Lee has been instrumental in transforming the school from a state-rated C campus to an A, achieving five TEA distinctions. Under his leadership, Garcia M.S. has seen a dramatic cultural shift, significantly increased parental involvement, and earned the distinction of becoming the first International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme in South Dallas. The school now ranks among the top middle schools in MAP growth for both reading and math, is in the top for SEl, and boasts one of the highest-ranked school climates, placing in the top 10 among all secondary schools in the district. In recognition of his achievements, Lee was awarded the Master Principal designation in 2024, 2025, and named the Dallas ISD Secondary Principal of the Year. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy at the University of Texas at Austin, CSP.

Principal Lee is deeply honored to serve the Sunset community, committed to preserving the legacy of excellence and rich history that defines Sunset High School. He eagerly anticipates collaborating with dedicated teachers, supportive parents, community partners, and, most importantly, the incredible students to drive Sunset toward even greater achievements. Principal Lee firmly believes that through teamwork and shared vision, there are no limits to what we can accomplish. Together, we will make Sunset the best it can be! Go Bison Pride!

 

                                                                        David Lee

                                                                  Principal at Sunset

                                                      Email: davilee@dallasisd.org

                                                                Phone: 972-502-1500