Curtis Daugherty was born in Houston, Texas. He is a graduate of Jesse H. Jones High School.
Mr. Daugherty launched his post high school experience at the University of Houston, but later transferred to Texas Southern University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in mathematics.
He went on to teach high school mathematics at Milby High School in Houston ISD for six years and at Galena Park High School in Galena Park ISD for one year. During that time Mr. Daugherty began graduate coursework for educational administration at the University of Houston – Clear Lake.
After one year in Galena Park ISD, he returned to Houston ISD as a middle school assistant principal. Mr. Daugherty's desire to work with high school students led him to La Porte High School in 2003.