Meet Dora B. Lantrip

Dora B. Lantrip (1868–1951) was a pioneering educator in Houston, Texas, best known for her long tenure as principal of Eastwood High School, which later became Dora B. Lantrip Elementary School 

Early Life and Career

Born March 22, 1868, in Rusk County, Texas, Lantrip dedicated her life to public education. She became principal of Eastwood High in 1916, a position she held for 26 years until her retirement in 1942.  Eastwood was one of Houston’s first master-planned neighborhoods, and the school was designed in the mission architectural style with a “cottage plan” layout, making it more home-like and less institutional.

Innovative School Administration

Lantrip was recognized for her innovative school administration. During World War I, she led students in planting flower and vegetable gardens, integrating practical lessons with civic responsibility. Each year, students elected roles such as “city council,” “mayor,” and “health inspector” to learn about government and public participation In the 1920s and 1930s, she traveled worldwide, bringing back souvenirs and costumes for students to wear in the fall, using them to teach about geography and culture.

She sung to student each morning, housed the United States first all Mexican American Girl Scout troop, and valued students being curious, learning about the world, in addition to strong academics.

Legacy and Recognition

Lantrip retired in 1942, and the school was renamed in her honor in the early 1950s   In 1975, Lantrip Elementary introduced an ecology magnet program, continuing her emphasis on science, nature, and hands-on learning. Lantrip donated over a 1000 books to Lantrip after retirement, to foster a love of reading. Students still grow flowers and vegetables in campus greenhouses, preserving her original focus on environmental education.