The United Independent School District is proud to announce the promotion of Erika Saldana to principal of Kennedy-Zapata Elementary.
Most recently, she served as assistant principal at KZE. With 19 years of dedicated service in education, Mrs. Saldana is a proud product of United ISD having graduated from United South High School’s Global Business and Technology Magnet Program, Class of 2002.
In her new role as principal, she wants to make every student feel valued, seen and championed.
“As principal of KZE, my purpose is rooted in believing in every child who walks through our doors. I want our students to feel that this is a place where they’re safe to dream big, stumble, grow, and rise because they are supported by a team who sees their potential even before they do,” Mrs. Saldana said. “I’m here to champion our teachers, partner with our families, and lead with heart, because I know the magic that happens when a community wraps around its children.”
Throughout her career, she has served in several leadership and enrichment roles.
“I was honored to serve as a Team Leader, helping guide instruction and build strong collaboration among staff. At Bonnie Garcia Elementary, I proudly supported school spirit and student involvement as the Cheer Sponsor for six years,” Mrs. Saldana said.
“More recently, I’ve had the joy of mentoring young leaders as the National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) sponsor at Ruiz Elementary, nurturing character, service, and academic excellence in our students. Each of these roles has allowed me to contribute beyond the classroom and be part of creating meaningful experiences for both staff and students,” she added.
Her journey into education began with a simple but powerful instinct to help others; a quality nurtured by a teacher who saw her potential and forever changed her life. She carries that inspiration into her work every day, committed to fostering a school where every child is known, supported, and encouraged to grow. Her goals center around ensuring 100% student growth, building strong partnerships with families, and cultivating a culture of connection and excellence across campus.
“Ever since I was young, I naturally wanted to help others. But it was one teacher, in particular, who changed everything for me,” Mrs. Saldana said. “The way she believed in me, pushed me, and made me feel seen left a lasting impact I’ll never forget. That experience lit a fire in me to do the same for other children to make a difference not just in their school years, but in their lives and futures. I knew early on that helping young children grow and succeed was how I wanted to contribute to the world.”
What she loves most about the KZE community is that it feels like a family.
“What I love most about our school is the deep sense of connection,” Mrs. Saldana said. “It truly feels like a family. Everyone, from teachers to support staff, plays a role in uplifting our students, creating a space where kids feel seen, supported, and celebrated. The way we rally around every child, recognizing both big accomplishments and small steps forward, gives our school its unique heart.”
Mrs. Saldana holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with a Bilingual Specialization (2006) and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration (2015), both from Texas A&M International University.
Along her journey, she has been thankful for many things - from spiritual guidance to the love and support from her family.
“First and foremost, I want to thank God for guiding me every step of the way,” Mrs. Saldana said. “I also want to thank my husband, children, and family for their unwavering support and encouragement. Their belief in me has always been my greatest source of strength.”
Outside of school, she finds joy in life’s simple moments, movie nights with her family, beach trips, and time spent reading. A proud wife and mother, she credits her faith and her family for giving her the strength and encouragement to serve and lead with heart.
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