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Donna ISD is proud to announce that Superintendent Dr. Angela Dominguez has been selected as a 2024-25 Superintendent to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). This prestigious honor is awarded to only 25 superintendents nationwide with fewer than five years of experience in the role, recognizing exceptional leadership, innovative vision, and a commitment to excellence in communication.

Dr. Dominguez, who became Superintendent of Donna ISD in October 2021, is the first woman to lead the district in over 100 years. In just over three years, she has transformed Donna ISD with her student-centered approach, strategic vision, and focus on transparency and engagement. Her leadership has guided the district through numerous accomplishments, including:

• A 100% student growth rate across all subjects
• Launching Rivas Primary Discovery Academy, the first early childhood center of its kind in the Rio Grande Valley, and earning the H-E-B Excellence in Education Outstanding Early Childhood Award
• Expanding dual-language programs to better serve multilingual students
• Spearheading the passage of a $120 million bond referendum to fund critical expansions, including additional classrooms, gymnasiums, outdoor learning spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities
• Launching a full-fledged, innovative 18+ Program that empowers students with real-world experiences through Market Days, where they sell student-made products such as baked goods, artistic crafts, personalized coffee mugs, t-shirts, and tote bags. The program also connects students with community initiatives like the Texas A&M AgriLife Expanded Food & Nutrition Education Program, teaching them to prepare healthy, affordable meals using foods from all the food groups.

“This recognition from NSPRA is not just a personal milestone, but a reflection of the collective commitment and hard work of our entire Donna ISD family,” said Dr. Dominguez. “Together, we are creating opportunities that inspire, engage, and prepare our students to excel in college, their careers, or military service.”

Dr. Dominguez’s emphasis on communication as a strategic pillar has set Donna ISD apart. From launching a bilingual bond marketing campaign to creating campus-based Digital Communication Managers (DCMs), she has prioritized accessibility and transparency. Initiatives like the annual State of the District Address, Pláticas with Parents meetings, Student Lunch and Learn sessions and Teacher Talks have fostered trust and deepened engagement with district stakeholders.

“Effective communication is about more than just sharing information; it’s about building relationships and trust,” added Dr. Dominguez. “When our community is informed and engaged, our students benefit the most.”

NSPRA will honor Dr. Dominguez and the other recipients during the 2025 National Seminar in Washington, D.C., this July.