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Donna Independent School District is proud to announce that Superintendent Dr. Angela Dominguez has been named the 2025 Region One Superintendent of the Year by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB). Dr. Dominguez received official notification of the honor on Friday, May 30, from the Region One Education Service Center.

Dr. Dominguez, who made history as Donna ISD’s first female superintendent when she assumed leadership in October 2021, has consistently championed student success, equity, and innovation across the district. Under her visionary leadership, Donna ISD has seen record gains in early childhood literacy, sustained academic growth, and transformative changes to instructional programming, community engagement, and school facilities.

“This recognition is incredibly humbling,” said Dr. Dominguez. “It’s a reflection of the hard work, resilience, and unwavering commitment that my team and I — alongside our Board of Trustees — have poured into supporting our students, teachers, staff, and families. I share this honor with the entire Donna ISD community—it belongs to all of us.”

Since stepping into her role, Dr. Dominguez has introduced a wide array of initiatives designed to uplift every learner, including the development of a five-year strategic plan focused on five key pillars: Student Success, Family and Community Engagement, Operational Excellence, Employee Development, and Financial Stewardship.

Some of the most notable accomplishments under her leadership include:

· A leap in early literacy: In 2021, only 18% of kindergarten students were reading at grade level. By the end of the 2023–2024 school year, that number had risen to 85%, with 86% in Spanish, highlighting the district’s commitment to dual language and early learning.

· Innovative campuses: The award-winning M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy and its expanding Discovery Academy model are transforming early childhood education in the Rio Grande Valley.

· Expanded opportunities: From new CTE programs such as Dental Assistant and Exercise Science to increased Dual Language instruction and enriched arts and athletic offerings, students have access to more pathways than ever before.

· Bond success: Dr. Dominguez and the Board of Trustees successfully led a community-centered campaign to pass a $120 million bond referendum, funding classroom expansions, outdoor learning spaces, and critical infrastructure upgrades.

· Inclusive communication: Through initiatives like “Lunch and Learn” student forums, “Pláticas with Parents,” and Teacher Talks, she has fostered an environment where all voices are valued.

Dr. Dominguez reflected on the importance of this journey. “Every decision we make is guided by one question: What is best for students?” she said. “We’ve worked to create a system that is not only academically rigorous but also emotionally supportive, culturally affirming, and focused on long-term success.”She continued,

“I want our students to walk into any room—college lecture halls, boardrooms, job interviews—and know that they belong there. That’s what this work is about—making sure every child feels seen, heard, and prepared.”

Donna ISD Board President Fernando Castillo praised the announcement, stating, “Dr. Dominguez leads with heart, vision, and purpose. She understands our community because she listens to our community. Her leadership has ignited a culture of excellence that is evident in every school, every classroom, and every student outcome.”

Dr. Dominguez’s own story is one of perseverance and purpose. Raised by a single father in a small one-bedroom home on the Westside of San Antonio, she defied the odds, became the first in her family to graduate from college, and earned her degree from Dartmouth. Her journey has inspired countless students to believe in what’s possible.

“As I reflect on this moment, I am reminded of every child who just needs one person to believe in them,” she added. “I had those people in my life, and it’s my life’s work to be that person for others. That’s what drives me every single day.”

The Texas Association of School Boards’ Superintendent of the Year program recognizes exemplary superintendents for excellence and achievement in educational leadership. As Region One’s honoree, Dr. Dominguez advances to the next round of competition, where five finalists from across Texas will be selected. The state winner will be announced at the 2025 TASA/TASB Convention in the fall.