The 2026 Summer Leadership Summit officially kicked off this week at the United ISD Student Activity Complex, gathering campus and district administrators for a three-day event centered on collaboration, district goals, and preparation for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.

The SAC auditorium was filled with energy and excitement for the leaders, celebrating UISD’s continued success as a six-time “A”-rated district, with anticipation building for a seventh “A” rating as the team prepares to welcome students back on August 12. The summit gave principals and vice principals an opportunity to reconnect, strategize, and set their sights on a successful school year.

Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz and top administrators addressed the group regarding important district updates and expectations. 

While acknowledging that the past year brought its share of challenges, leaders emphasized that the team is more resilient than ever and ready to move forward with a clear vision.

The Superintendent said that although not new, UISD goals remain top priorities that will continue to guide the district moving forward.  

“As we begin a new school year, these goals serve as our foundation and our compass. They remind us of who we are, what we value, and why we do this work,” he stated.

The five strategic goals that will continue to guide every decision and initiative across the district include: Academic Excellence; Recruitment, Retention, and Development of High-Quality Employees; Family and Community Partnerships; Safe, Positive, and Supportive Culture; and Fiscal Responsibility, Sustainable and Equitable Resources.  

UISD leaders emphasized that together, these goals reflect the district’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every student receives the support and opportunities needed to succeed. 

“Guided by the UISD Way: respect, responsibility, relationships, results, and resilience, we remain committed to ensuring every student receives the highest quality education, care and support in our district.” 

Board President Javier Montemayor stopped by to praise the group for its dedication to excellence and for putting UISD on the map as the top school district in Region One. 

“Our graduation rates and performance across testing are top notch,” stated Board President Montemayor. “We have competitive programs that are among the best in the state. 

“At the end of the day, it’s about our students being successful, graduating from college, starting a career or pursuing military service. Our students can do whatever they want to do in their lives with our education, guidance and support, and I’m confident that you all handle that very well,” he told the principals.

Customer service remains a district priority at all levels, and teacher and staff performance will continue to be recognized and celebrated through programs such as TIA and UISD Cares Champions. The Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) is a Texas education program that provides additional funding to school districts to reward and retain highly effective teachers, and UISD Cares Champions is a customer service employee recognition initiative.  The group also heard positive reports of successful employee fundraising for United Way and Partners for Scholars. 

Additional good news included the renewal of a federal grant supporting the 21st Century Community Learning Centers, allowing the district’s free after-school program to continue because of its demonstrated success. 

The summit concluded with a celebration of the district’s achievements and future goals through a Norwegian-style Viking row inspired by the chant heard recently during the FIFA World Cup— “Ro! Ro!” 

The synchronized rowing and rhythmic beating of a drum by the Superintendent served as a reminder that everyone must work together to continue providing the best education for UISD students, while also providing a lighthearted moment that strengthened camaraderie among district leaders as they prepare for the 2026-2027 school year.

UISD Board President Javier Montemayor at Leadership Summit

Associate Superintendent of Human Resources David R. Canales

UISD Management Team at Leadership Summit