United Independent School District proudly announces the promotion of Priscilla E. Leija to the position of Magnet Dean of Health and Science at John B. Alexander High School. With over 28 years of dedicated service in education and 16 years with UISD, Leija brings a wealth of experience and passion to her new role.
Leija served as Assistant Principal at Alexander High for the past ten years, where she made a lasting impact on both students and staff.
“Some of my most impactful accomplishments as an Assistant Principal at Alexander High include leading high-performing English Language Arts (ELA), Social Studies, and Special Education departments, having the opportunity to work alongside talented and dedicated individuals, and contributing to the ‘A’ rated campus success through teacher and student empowerment,” said Leija.
As the newly appointed Magnet Dean, Leija is eager to lead a program that emphasizes academic excellence and prepares students for careers in health and science.
“I am truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead such a prestigious program that fosters academic excellence, career readiness, and a passion for service,” Leija shared. “Thank you to Mrs. Rosana Montemayor Arizola, AHS principal, Dr. Gerardo Cruz, Superintendent of Schools, and the United ISD Board of Trustees for their confidence in me and for supporting my educational endeavors.”
In her new position, Leija is focused on driving innovation and collaboration.
“My vision is to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to create new opportunities for our students through innovative learning experiences that strengthen health and science pathways,” she said. “I am committed to ongoing education and leading with purpose to prepare young minds for successful futures in an ever-changing and increasingly competitive workforce.”
Leija began her career in education 28 years ago, serving in Laredo ISD, the Diocese of Laredo, and UISD. She spent 18 years in the classroom as an English teacher at Memorial Middle, St. Augustine High, and United High before transitioning into school administration.
A proud graduate of United High School, Leija holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in English and a Master of Science in Educational Administration, both from Texas A&M International University. She is currently a doctoral candidate at East Texas A&M University, where she is completing her dissertation on first-year teacher mentoring programs. Her certifications include ELAR 8-12, Principal EC-12, and Superintendent EC-12.
Leija lives in Laredo with her husband, Mario A. Leija Jr., and their three daughters: Priscilla Elaine, Abigail Nicole, and Amanda Gloria. She is also the proud grandmother of her first granddaughter, Allison Belle.
In her spare time, she enjoys reading and spending quality time with her family.
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