Excellence

Midway announces new leader of instruction

Midway Independent School District Board of Trustees welcomed a familiar face to a key role in today’s Special Called Board Meeting. Dr. Aaron Peña, the current principal of Woodgate Intermediate School, has been named the new Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for the district.  

“Dr. Aaron Peña is diligent in his practice and committed to the profession,” said Midway Superintendent Dr. George Kazanas. “What stands out most is his work ethic and passion for students and teachers.”

Dr. Peña’s 20 years of teaching and leadership experience includes an impressive track record of service at the elementary and secondary levels in both urban and suburban school settings.

“He has a particular talent for transforming academic performance of campuses,” said Kazanas. “I’m excited to see how his ability to impact a campus can be amplified across the district.”

Peña joined Midway ISD in 2011 as the principal of Woodway Elementary, then became principal of Woodgate Intermediate in 2017.  He received his bachelor’s degree in education from Baylor University, a master’s in education management from the University of Houston Clear Lake, and earned his doctoral degree and superintendent certification from the University of Texas at Austin. Dr. Peña has received numerous awards and recognitions including being named the H-E-B Excellence in Education Texas Principal of the Year in 2015 and receiving the TASA Johnny Veselka Award in 2016. Most recently he was honored with being named a top finalist for the 2019 National Distinguished Principal award by the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association.

“In addition to exceptional leadership qualities, Dr. Peña is bilingual, a dedicated family man, and a lifelong learner,” added Kazanas.