superintendent newsletter

HarlandaleFamily,

March continues to unfold, and with it comes a well-deserved break for our District. While this time offers a chance for rest and recharge, it's important to remember that our commitment to this remarkable community never truly takes a break. Just as the spring season brings forth new growth, let us use this break to return energized and dedicated to nurturing our students’ potential.

I want to begin this week’s newsletter by congratulating two Bellaire Elementary students for being named a finalist and runner-up in this year’s River Parade Art Contest! Isabella Flores was recognized as this year's City Council District 3 runner-up, and Mila Montoya was named a finalist. Isabella will receive a $1,000 check, and Mila will receive a $3,000 check, respectively, that will both go toward their campus’ art program. Mila, who will also receive two visual art classes this summer, was honored during an official Cavaliers Press Conference at UTSA Southwest Campus this week. Congratulations to both Isabella and Mila! We're incredibly proud of you both and excited to see Mila's artwork showcased in the Texas Cavaliers' River Parade Program.

I am thrilled to share that McCollum High School Senior Samantha De La Rosa was named a 2024 Outstanding Future Teacher by Our Lady of the Lake University! This prestigious award recognizes Samantha's exceptional potential and dedication to the teaching profession. We at Harlandale ISD understand the invaluable role of educators, and we are incredibly proud to see Samantha flourishing. We hope we can welcome her back to Harlandale one day, where she can inspire and empower the next generation of learners.

The rosters for the first-ever San Antonio Sports All-Star Basketball Game have been announced, and we could not be more impressed by our talented students! The roster features 122 players from 67 different high schools across the city, five of which hail from our District. The students selected include Anthony Soto, Gabriella Gamboa, Jonathan Regalado, Cascia Sandoval and Marissa Ortiz. The action will take place on Sunday, March 24 at Northside Gym. Not only will you see the future of San Antonio basketball, but you can also enjoy an exciting skills challenge and three-point contest. Catch the games live on KSAT 12, or

purchase tickets here.

I’d like to highlight one of our very own for being highlighted in the most recent Live from the Southside magazine issue! Schulze Elementary’s Aleah Guzman was featured for her work in positively impacting the community through her art and her work with children. In the article, Ms. Guzman states her mantra is one of resilience and determination: "Nothing worth having is easy,” something I think we can all agree on. Way to go, Ms. Guzman!

As we wrap up this week's newsletter, I want to thank you all for your continued support of our District. I am grateful to have such a passionate team to offer our students the best education possible. On behalf of the Harlandale School Board, I’d like to wish you each a safe and well-deserved Spring Break. May this break be an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, pursue your interests and return refreshed and ready to continue our journey. I look forward to seeing you all when we return.

Sincerely,

Gerardo Soto

Harlandale ISD Superintendent of Schools