LaredoBuzz.Com

Courtesy Alex Meyer,

(Laredo, Texas)-Recently, United Independent School District honored the achievements of retiring Superintendent Roberto J. Santos with a brunch and parade. The dual events were held at the new elementary campus that bears his name. Santos began his 38-year career at United Independent School District in 1983, and served in numerous administrative and directorship roles prior to his appointment as Superintendent of Schools in 2005.

Tasked with the new challenge of achieving big goals for the school district, Mr. Santos worked diligently (for the next 16 years), with Board Members, teachers and parents to advance and grow the district.

Under his tutelage, the district garnered an impressive number of accolades – among them are the Texas Education Agency (T.E.A.) recognition for school system accountability in 2010, and the district’s “A” rating for the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 school years. The latter of the two recognition reflects notable academic performance, graduation rates, and ACT/SAT performance.

Superintendent Santos also worked closely with constituents and the board to make School Bond 2013 successful. The $408,712,549.00 bond funded the construction of 5 elementary , 3 middle , and 4 9th grade campuses. In addition, some of the bond proceeds were utilized to rebuild Salinas elementary school and upgrade infrastructure, technology, and security at older campuses. Mr. Santos also pioneered efforts to establish the Cherish Center for special needs students, and fostered the development of early college programs at Lyndon B. Johnson High School. As he prepares to retire at the end of this month, Mr. Santos has reflected on his career at United Independent School District.

“During my time at the district I have had the honor to serve alongside some of the finest educators and support staff in the world of education. The district has been a wonderful place for me to work, but, more importantly, United ISD is an outstanding place for our children to learn and grow. I wish to thank everyone at the district for their amazing teamwork and support over the years. I will always cherish what we have accomplished together. I also wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the next Superintendent, Mr. David H. Gonzalez. He is an exemplary educational leader who is clearly focused on what is best for all students. We are blessed to have the benefit of his experience and respected leadership. The district will be in great hands” said Santos.

“Mr. Santos carried United ISD’s educational legacy forward, and we will continue to use that momentum into the future as we strive to provide every child with a first-rate public school education”, said Board President Javier Montemayor Jr.. Board Vice-President Aliza Flores Oliveros added that it was an honor to work with Mr. Santos. “His leadership, vision and integrity truly elevated the quality of public school education in our community – and his guidance over the past year during the pandemic has been nothing short of exemplary. I am very proud of his achievements and wish him a healthy and prosperous retirement”, said Oliveros.