Los Fresnos CISD is proud to announce Mrs. Holly Maldonado as the district’s new Chief Academic Officer. With more than 20 years of experience as a teacher, strategist, and campus administrator, Mrs. Maldonado brings a deep commitment to academic excellence and a longstanding connection to the Los Fresnos community.
Mrs. Maldonado began her career in 2004 at Los Fresnos Elementary, where she taught 4th and 5th grade and later served as the campus science lab teacher. She continued her work at Los Cuates Middle School as a science teacher before transitioning to a district strategist role. In that position, she collaborated closely with teachers and administrators to support instructional decisions and helped expand key initiatives, including Project Lead the Way (PLTW), one of the district’s most impactful STEM programs.
Her administrative leadership includes serving as Dean of Liberty Memorial Middle School and supporting campuses at Palmer-Laakso and Lopez-Riggins Elementary. Most recently, Mrs. Maldonado has led Dora Romero Elementary as principal, fostering a culture of collaboration and high expectations. This school year has been especially meaningful as she reconnected with her “grand students”—children of former students she once taught. “Seeing my ‘grand students’ reminds me that our work shapes generations,” she said. “That experience guides me and strengthens my purpose in this new role.”
Mrs. Maldonado holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Graceland University, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Brownsville, and a Principal Certification from Lamar University. As a first-generation college graduate, she understands the lasting impact educators have on students’ lives.
In her role as Chief Academic Officer, Mrs. Maldonado will lead curriculum, instruction, and academic initiatives in the district. She will support teacher development, guide instructional leadership, and ensure students have equitable access to engaging learning experiences.
“Academics can inspire students by painting a brighter future filled with new possibilities and hope,” said Maldonado. “It is my determination to provide educational experiences that solidify the knowledge and skills of our future generation of leaders.”
Los Fresnos CISD congratulates Mrs. Maldonado on this new role.