Ball Elementary Principal, Laura Gonzalez-Vasquez

Laura Gonzalez-Vasquez has 23 years of experience in teaching and educational leadership. She earned a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies in early childhood education and a Master of Science in education administration from Texas A&M International University. She earned a master’s in library science from the University of North Texas and earned a Master of Science in computer information systems from the University of Houston-Victoria. Additionally, she holds several educational certifications including bilingual/ESL-Spanish, elementary self-contained, elementary early childhood education, technology applications, school librarian, and a principal's certification. She comes to SAISD from the United Independent School District (United ISD) in Laredo, Texas where she, most recently, served as director of student assessment. In her time with United ISD, she also served as principal at Amparo Gutierrez Elementary, and assistant principal at Matias De Llano and Radcliffe & Sue Killam elementary schools. Before becoming an administrator, Gonzalez-Vasquez was a library media specialist at J.W. Arndt Elementary, and an elementary teacher at Henry Cuellar Elementary School.

Bonham Academy Principal, Christopher Herrera

Principal Christopher Herrera is excited to be returning to Bonham Academy, where he once taught. He brings a decade of experience and said, he is eager to continue growing and learning alongside the Bonham Familia. 

Herrera started his teaching career in Austin ISD in 2012 and relocated to San Antonio in 2017 to teach at Bonham Academy. Herrera has worked in elementary and secondary settings and appreciates all he has learned from great leaders. “I'm passionate about the work that I do, and I strive to empower our students and their families to reach their hopes and dreams,” said Herrera. “As a first-generation high school and university graduate, I understand firsthand the importance of a quality education and I lead with that in mind. All our students have the potential to reach greatness, and I will work to support our students and teachers as they take on the mission of preparing our future generations to bring about the change we wish to see.”

Collins Gardens Elementary Principal, Jennifer Ruiz

Jennifer Ruiz is proud to be the new principal at Collins Garden Elementary and join the SAISD familia. “I am excited to honor the rich traditions of the community and lead the campus to build a strong foundation of confidence, pride, and academic success for every student,” said Ruiz. Ruiz was born and raised in San Antonio and graduated from Thomas Edison High School. “As a first-generation, college graduate, I know the power of education and the opportunities it provides. It is my goal to instill in students the confidence that they can become whatever they dream and can accomplish their goals through hard work and dedication,” said Ruiz.

Ruiz has 23 years of experience in education including positions as teacher, reading coach/ title 1 teacher, dyslexia interventionist, and assistant principal. “I am proud to share that my husband is an SAISD coach, and together we have three active children. We spend most of our evenings and weekends at football games, dance performances, and with Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) sports. My family has supported me throughout my career and has witnessed my passion and commitment to student success. I look forward to serving the Collins Garden community and supporting students in creating a path to their future,” said Ruiz.

Davis Middle School 7/8 Principal, Juaquín Ángel Soliz

Juaquín Ángel Soliz is a native of south Texas entering his 20th year in education. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of the Incarnate Word and a master’s degree from Concordia University in Austin. Soliz started his career in San Antonio as a middle school teacher but said his commitment to educational excellence for all students led him into administration. For the last four years, Soliz has served as an assistant principal at Sam Houston High School. It is this experience in education that makes him well qualified to serve Davis Middle School. Soliz said he is excited about continuing his work strengthening the Eastside and looks forward to a wonderful 2023-2024 school year.

Davis Middle School Principal, Kimberly Nwosu

Kimberly Nwosu is excited to be part of the SAISD community as the principal of S. J. Davis Middle School. Nwosu has 20 years of experience in education and has served as a teacher, gifted and talented specialist and instructional coach in SAISD. She also served in Edgewood ISD as a teacher and assistant principal. Nwosu is an innovative leader with experience in discipline management and curriculum development. “I am a strong believer that every child can learn if given the opportunity, and I am ready to serve and inspire our students, teachers and community as a leader at SAISD,” Nwosu said.

Nwosu attended Texas Lutheran University for three years and transferred to the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in sociology. A year after graduating she decided to pursue her teaching certification at ACT San Antonio. After teaching for 10 years, Nwosu was accepted into the Trinity Leadership Program where she earned a Master of Education in administration with principal certification. Nwosu said, “I believe that education is the most powerful tool you can use to change the world, and I am looking forward to the 2023 –2024 school year.”

Forbes Elementary Principal, Klaudia Hidalgo

Klaudia Hidalgo was born and raised in the border town of Eagle Pass, Texas. She is a first-generation college graduate. For the past 18 years, Hidalgo has dedicated her life to championing all the students who have come through her classrooms and schools by providing high-quality and equitable education. She has a proven record of academic campus success. Hidalgo is a lifelong learner who earned a Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University and a Master of Education in school leadership from Trinity University. During her teaching career, Hidalgo has served in elementary schools as a bilingual and dual language teacher, special education co-teacher, behavior specialist, administrator intern, instructional coach, and most recently an assistant principal. “I believe that every child deserves a high-quality education regardless of their circumstances or ZIP code,” Hidalgo said. Her vision is that every child on her campus is held to the highest standards so they can excel in the future. She is committed to collaborating with parents, teachers, and the community in creating a safe and nurturing learning environment of high expectations.

Harris Middle School Head of School, John Hilliard

John K. Hilliard is an experienced educator, who most recently served as assistant principal at Sidney Lanier High School. Hilliard began his career as a high school science teacher at Highlands High School and recently completed his 16th year in education, all in SAISD. He has worked in various roles, including teacher, implementation specialist, instructional coach, and assistant principal. “My goal has been to improve educational outcomes for students by utilizing strong leadership skills and dedication to the success of all students,” Hilliard said. As principal of Harris Middle School, Hilliard said he will continue to provide an equitable and accessible education for all students and will work relentlessly to remove barriers and assist students in reaching their full potential. Hilliard is a life-long learner, a trait he hopes to nurture in his students. He obtained his bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Texas San Antonio, and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Trinity University while completing the Tomorrow's Leaders Program. He completed the Emerging Leaders Program in 2018 and the Cahn Fellows Program in 2020. He looks forward to working with Harris Middle School students, parents, staff, and community members to continue building strong partnerships that will improve student performance and elevate their post-secondary readiness.

Highland Hills Elementary Principal, Vanessa Cartwright

Vanessa Cartwright brings 20 years of experience in public, private, and charter education to Highland Hills Elementary. As the daughter of two retired SAISD teachers, the value of knowledge and education was instilled in her at an early age. Wanting to take her passion for learning and leadership to the next level, she obtained her master’s degree in educational leadership from Concordia University Texas. Cartwright also attended Relay Graduate School of Education as a national principal academy and inclusive schools leadership institute fellow. Cartwright is eager to serve the Highland Hills community.

Sam Houston High School Principal, Dr. NaKeshia Bibbs

Dr. NaKeshia Bibbs is an accomplished, educational leader with 18 years of experience in school administration and effective, instructional practices. With a strong commitment to student achievement and equitable education, Bibbs has made significant contributions to improving academic outcomes and campus accountability for diverse student populations. Bibbs holds a Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership, a Master of Arts in education from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a Bachelor of Science from McMurry University. For the past five years, Bibbs has worked as an assistant principal at Sam Houston High. “I am thrilled to take on the role of principal and continue serving the students, teachers, parents, and the Eastside community,” Bibbs said, “I am committed to leading the Hurricane family and ensuring the students have the best possible opportunities to learn and achieve their academic goals.”

Irving Dual Language Academy Principal, Mayra Gutierrez-Ibarra

Mayra Gutierrez-Ibarra has more than two decades of experience in the field of education. She began her career as a bilingual elementary teacher. In the past 26 years, she has served in various leadership capacities, including principal, assistant principal, bilingual & ESL coordinator, instructional specialist, and instructional coach. She received her undergraduate degree in linguistics and psychology from the University of California, San Diego and a graduate degree in educational leadership from California State University, Northridge.

Jefferson High School Head of School, Gregory Rivers

Gregory Rivers has served this community as a teacher, instructional coach, and now as a campus principal.  "I’ve been an educator for more than 20 years and I bring a wealth of experience in curriculum and leadership," said Rivers. "I’m committed to ensuring that our students received the best education possible so that the doors of opportunity are wide open for them."

Rivers believes in being a servant leader who will listen to all stakeholders and will seek to understand the needs of parents, students, and staff.  He said, "I believe in innovation and will make every effort possible to prepare students for the jobs that will require critical thinking and cooperation. Also, I feel that our most important stakeholders are our parents. Their input and support are vital and I welcome their voice and expertise as we move our campus forward."

Rivers attended St. Mary’s University and received a master's from Incarnate Word University with distinction in the field of curriculum and instruction.

Lanier High School Principal, Dr. Rick Flores

Dr. Rick Flores is the newly appointed principal at Sidney Lanier High School. Flores has 27 years of service in public education. He spent 22 of those years in SAISD and is an alumnus of SAISD. As a young man, Flores lived in San Juan Homes (public housing) where he attended Storm Elementary, Lowell Middle School, and graduated from Luther Burbank High School. Flores is a first-generation college graduate. “I truly understand the struggles that come with being the first to attend college and I look forward to supporting our Lanier VOKS to dream big,” Flores said. In 1995, Flores earned concurrent Bachelor of Arts degrees in sociology and music education from Texas Lutheran University. In 2001, he earned a master's in educational leadership from Schreiner University. In 2016, he earned his superintendent certification at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, and in 2022, Flores earned his doctorate in educational leadership from Texas Tech University. Flores said, he considers it a blessing and privilege to serve in the ZIP code he once called home. Flores said, “I am committed to locking arms with the Lanier High School community to ensure that all students are afforded the opportunity to experience social and academic success. At Lanier High School, si se puede!"

Madison Elementary School Interim Principal Laura Romero

Laura Romero is happy to serve Madison Elementary as interim principal. Romero started her career in education in 2002. She grew up in El Paso, Texas and started her career in education in the Socorro Independent School District. While there she served as a dual language teacher for 10 years. After working on her master's in administration, she moved to a small town in New Mexico, near El Paso. Romero started her educational leadership career as an assistant principal in Gadsden ISD, a small district composed of several small towns on a long stretch of territory in New Mexico. “In the middle of the pandemic I decided to make a move to San Antonio, and I have proudly served as assistant principal of Highland Park Elementary in SAISD these past three years,” Romero said. “I am happy to continue my journey with the SAISD familia who embraces multiculturalism.”

Margil Elementary School Principal, Andrea Castaneda

Andrea Castaneda is honored and excited to be the new principal at Margil Elementary School. She has served SAISD for 21 years. Castaneda began her career at De Zavala Elementary as a teacher, administrative assistant, and assistant principal. She also served as assistant principal at Beacon Hill, Stewart, and Margil elementary schools. Castaneda earned a Bachelor of Science degree in early childhood education from Our Lady of the Lake University and a Master of Education in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio. “As an educational leader, I am passionate about the needs of students, staff and community members and serve as an advocate for all,” said Castaneda. “I believe that the relationship between families and the school is vital to the success of our students, in working collaboratively with teachers, and challenging all students by providing effective instruction, support and the growth mindset to succeed.”

Miller Elementary School Principal, Laura Hernández-López

Laura Hernández-López is the proud principal at Dorie Miller Elementary. She has more than 20 years of experience in public education. “My passion for education and support for the success of all students has been shaped by teaching bilingual and ESL students,” said Hernández-López. She has served as a bilingual instructional coach, bilingual/ESL facilitator, assistant principal, and principal at a dual language campus. She earned her high school diploma from Sidney Lanier High School, Bachelor of Arts from Our Lady of the Lake University, and a master's degree in educational administration from Concordia University Texas. “I consider myself a lifelong learner and believe that one should never stop learning and growing. I truly look forward to an amazing year with my Miller familia,” said Hernández-López.

Pershing Elementary School Principal, Shelene Livas

Shelene Livas is a professional educator who enjoys teaching, learning and leading. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from The Ohio State University and holds minors in political science and African American studies. Following graduation, she was selected as a State of Ohio Legislative Service Commission intern and worked for the House of Representatives Minority Caucus Leadership serving the constituents of the 22nd House district.

After relocating to Houston, Livas earned a master’s degree in educational administration and supervision with an emphasis in higher education from the University of Houston, and a Rice University Education Entrepreneurship Program (REEP) Business Fellowship for school leaders from Rice University in Houston. Throughout her 24 years in education, she has served as a campus principal, assistant principal, interdisciplinary instructional coach, instructional specialist, and bilingual teacher. Most recently, she worked as an educator appraisal and quality program manager with the SAISD Office of Continuous Improvement. Livas is an experienced school leader with a passion for developing positive and productive, student-centered, learning environments. She has successfully worked to create high-performing, school communities where all students are valued, encouraged, challenged, and empowered to achieve their academic, social/emotional, and personal goals. “I firmly believe school should be a great place to be a kid,” Livas said.

Rhodes Middle School Interim Principal, Blanca Rojas

Blanca Rojas has served SAISD since 2006 and has been in the field of education since 1999. She has held leadership positions at the campus and district levels in positions including English/ESL teacher, curriculum instructional coordinator, Diplomas Now transformational facilitator, district ESL instructional specialist, and assistant principal. She has extensive experience in dual language education, special programs, curriculum and instruction and leadership. She possesses strong restorative practice skills to enhance relationships and use as a tool for disciple with dignity. Rojas most recently served as assistant principal of Brackenridge High School where she was part of the instructional leadership team that brought the first B-rated, comprehensive high school to SAISD. Rojas graduated from Brown University, an Ivy League school located in Providence, Rhode Island. She furthered her studies at The University of Texas-Pan American in the Texas Rio Grande Valley, where she received two master’s degrees, one in English as a Second Language and the other in educational leadership. Rojas is known for her dedication to immigrant students as they navigate the educational system, and to ensuring their social-emotional wellness and academic success. She plans on uniting her experience and student-centered approach to support all students and believes that the relationships between families and school is vital to the success of all students.