The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has announced the appointment of a new Board of Managers and a new superintendent for the La Joya Independent School District (ISD). This decision comes after an extensive selection process and intervention history.
The newly appointed Board of Managers is composed of five individuals who have strong ties to the community and a deep understanding of the educational needs of the district. Among them is Celso Gomez Jr., a La Joya ISD graduate and former band director, who brings his experience in education and the automobile industry to the table. Dr. Rosalva Hernandez, another La Joya ISD graduate, is a healthcare professional who is passionate about serving the community. Dr. Carlos Margo, a Rio Grande City native and current Dean at South Texas College, also joins the board. Jessica Ochoa, a La Joya ISD parent and community advocate, and Alyssa Peña, an alumna of the district and a Senior Solutions Sales Manager, complete the team.
The newly appointed superintendent, Dr. Marcey Sorensen, is a highly experienced educator and leader. Dr. Sorensen has previously served as Deputy Superintendent for the Virginia Department of Education, where she focused on initiatives to address learning loss and improve early literacy and special education. She has also held leadership positions in the Fort Worth Independent School District and the Madison Metropolitan School District. Dr. Sorensen's expertise in curriculum and instruction, student support services, and community engagement will be valuable assets to the La Joya ISD.
The selection process for the Board of Managers and the superintendent was conducted with careful consideration of the candidates' qualifications and track records of improving student outcomes. TEA engaged in a comprehensive, nationwide search to find the most qualified individuals for these roles.
The appointment of the Board of Managers and the new superintendent is part of TEA's intervention in the La Joya ISD, which began with a recommendation from the Special Investigations Unit in May 2023. The district was given the opportunity to appeal the recommendation, and a final decision was made on February 1, 2024. Throughout the intervention process, TEA has been committed to ensuring the best possible education for the students of La Joya ISD.
For more information on the Board of Managers selection process and TEA's intervention history in the district, interested parties can visit the TEA's website.
With the new Board of Managers and superintendent in place, the La Joya ISD is poised to embark on a new chapter of educational excellence and community engagement. The diverse backgrounds and expertise of the board members, along with the leadership of Dr. Sorensen, will undoubtedly benefit the students and families of the district.
