Gadsden ISD Welcomes Four New Campus Leaders for 2026–2027

The Gadsden Independent School District is pleased to announce the selection of four experienced educational leaders who will assume new leadership roles for the upcoming school year. Together they bring decades of experience in instructional leadership, school improvement, teacher development, and student success.

Dr. Miguel Serrano – Principal, Berino Elementary School

Dr. Miguel Serrano joins Berino Elementary School after a distinguished career spanning more than three decades in public education. His experience includes serving as a campus principal, chief human resources officer, chief operations officer, executive director, interim superintendent, and university instructor. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Teaching, Learning, and Culture, and his professional work has focused on strengthening professional learning communities, improving student achievement, and building high-performing school systems. Throughout his career, Dr. Serrano has been recognized for instructional leadership, school improvement, and his commitment to servant leadership. As principal of Berino Elementary, he looks forward to partnering with students, families, and staff to build a positive school culture where academic excellence, collaboration, and strong relationships help every child reach their full potential.

Erika Rivera – Principal, Desert Trail Elementary School

Erika Rivera brings more than twenty years of educational experience to her new role as principal of Desert Trail Elementary School. Her career has progressed from instructional assistant and classroom teacher to instructional coach and assistant principal, providing her with a broad understanding of elementary education. A National Board Certified Teacher, Rivera is known for her collaborative leadership style, commitment to teacher development, and focus on using data to improve student achievement. She believes every child deserves an outstanding education, every educator deserves meaningful support, and every family should feel welcomed as an essential partner in the learning process. She is excited to work alongside the Desert Trail community to continue fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and student success.

Lidia T. Anguiano brings extensive leadership experience in bilingual education, campus administration, and instructional improvement to La Union Elementary School. During her career she has served as a classroom teacher, teacher leader, assistant principal, elementary principal, professional development consultant, and most recently as a bilingual classroom teacher. Her leadership has emphasized continuous improvement, strong relationships, and high expectations for every student. Anguiano's background supporting instructional leadership and professional learning equips her to partner effectively with teachers while maintaining a student-centered focus. She is committed to creating a welcoming school community where students thrive academically and socially, educators are empowered, and families remain active partners in learning.

Veronica Lugo – Assistant Principal, La Mesa Pre-K

Veronica Lugo has dedicated her career to supporting bilingual education, literacy, professional learning, and instructional excellence throughout Gadsden ISD. She has served as a bilingual instructional specialist, coordinator of professional development, instructional coach, and classroom teacher, while earning National Board Certification and an administrative license. Lugo has coordinated districtwide professional learning, supported dual language programs, and collaborated closely with campus leaders to improve teaching and learning. Her experience in early childhood education and instructional leadership positions her well to support the students, staff, and families of La Mesa Pre-K. She looks forward to helping build a nurturing environment where young learners establish a strong foundation for lifelong success.