Salena Valdes has been appointed principal of Woodridge Elementary.
She has served as assistant principal at Woodridge since 2021. She joined Alamo Heights ISD in 2018 as Instructional Coach at Woodridge. Prior to that, she worked in Somerset ISD as an assistant principal and at North East ISD as an AVID teacher and Coordinator and Reading teacher.
“As principal, I look forward to building on our strong foundations while continuing to support high-quality instruction, meaningful relationships, and opportunities for every student to succeed,” says Valdes. “I am committed to listening, learning, and working alongside each of you to ensure our school continues to grow and succeed.”
Valdes earned her bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees from Trinity University.
In 2025, she was honored as the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) Region 20 Assistant Principal of the Year. She currently serves as Treasurer for the TEPSA Region 20 Executive Board.
“We are thrilled to name Salena Valdes as the next principal of Woodridge,” says Dr. Dana Bashara, Superintendent. “She brings a deep commitment to student success, a passion for building strong relationships, and a clear vision for creating a learning environment where every child’s needs are met. I am especially excited for our community to have a leader who has already invested so much of herself in Woodridge and will continue to build on the strong foundation in place.”
Valdes and her husband Rocky Valdes have been married for 10 years and their son and daughter attend Woodridge.
“Having grown within this community, I have had the pleasure to witness the dedication, talent, and heart that make Woodridge a wonderful place,” says Valdes. “I have had the honor to assist and learn from incredible leaders. I know that our students are capable and inspiring, and that it is largely in part to our committed and caring staff and our families who share their utmost support. It is this strong foundation that makes me so excited to step into this new role and continue the important work we have already begun together.”
