When the first period bell rings at McCollum High School for the 2023-2024 school year, there will be a new principal leading the campus. With more than 25 years in the field, Jacob Salinas has been named the new principal at McCollum High School, bringing an exceptional blend of education and administrative expertise to the campus.
He boasts an impressive background in both teaching and coaching. Prior to being named MHS Principal, Mr. Salinas served as an administrator at Harlan High School and Brennan High School in San Antonio. This is also not his first rodeo as a Cowboy, having previously taught and coached at McCollum High School.
For Mr. Salinas, the goal is to continue building impactful relationships between the campus and community.
"This feels like a true full circle moment for me, and I couldn't be happier to be back,” said Salinas, who once taught U.S. History and was the head track coach at McCollum High School. “The sense of family and community that I've always felt here is incredibly special, and I'm excited to lead and be a part of it once again.”
Mr. Salinas's experience also extends beyond the classroom, court and field, overseeing programs and day-to-day operations in San Antonio-area campuses. He played an active role in organizing various academic and community events, and curating a positive culture between families, campuses and the community.
“We could not be more thrilled to welcome Mr. Salinas back to our Harlandale Family,” said Harlandale ISD Superintendent Gerardo Soto. “We know his Harlandale Legacy will pick up where he left it and we eagerly await the positive impact he will bring to McCollum High School.”
While considering his new role in the District, Mr. Salinas says he is most looking forward to collaborating with our Harlandale Family and hopes to focus on improving attendance so that every student is in the classroom ready to learn. He also hopes to raise the bar when it comes to test scores.
“My goal is to create a close-knit culture that truly feels like a family. I want every student, teacher and staff member to know that they are valued and supported,” Salinas said. I'm just really excited to be back where it all started. It's like I'm coming home.”
Congratulations, Mr. Salinas. Welcome to the Harlandale Family!