Message from the Principal

Principal
Maria Puentemejia
mpuentemejia@dallasisd.org

Degrees and Certifications: Lamar University - Master of Education Administration, DeVry University - Bachelor of Arts in Technical Management, United States Army Veteran, Skyline High School Alumna

Ms. Puentemejia is a first-generation Mexican American & College Graduate with Dallas ISD roots. She attended Dallas ISD schools from elementary to high school and graduated from Skyline High School.
After serving in the US Army for eight years, Ms. Puentemejia found her calling in education. She is now in her 21st year of education and has spent more than half of her career serving Dallas ISD families and students.
Instructionally, Ms. Puente was a 4th grade Self Contained Bilingual/Dual Language teacher for nine years in Garland ISD & Red Oak ISD. She has also served as a Science Cadre, Technology Integration Coach, ESL Evening School facilitator for Adults learning English & Technology skills, and Summer School Operations Coordinator.
Ms. Puente's career in Education Administration began as an Assistant Principal at Felix G. Botello Personalized Learning Elementary, where after only a little over 2 years, school leadership saw strong leadership. and she was promoted to Principal of Felix G. Botello. Through her leadership. Botello achieved the status of a model Personalized Learning Campus & AVID program. The campus is nationally renowned and frequently visited by educators across the district, state, and country.
After serving at Botello Elementary, she led Dallas ISD's Single Gender Young Men's Leadership Academy, where she expanded her knowledge as a Middle School Administrator.
Ms. Puentemejia then served as Principal of L.L. Hotchkiss, a PK–8 campus in Dallas ISD, where she led efforts to improve academic achievement while strengthening the school’s climate and culture. Through a focus on instructional excellence, high expectations, and relationship-building, the campus experienced growth in student outcomes and overall school performance.
Ms. Puentemejia is excited and prepared to lead the new Dallas Hybrid Preparatory School at Stephen J. Hay. Drawing upon her experiences as a teacher, instructional leader, and transformation experience, she is committed to creating an innovative learning environment that prepares students for success in college, careers, and life. Her vision is to build a model campus where rigorous academics, STEM-focused learning, technology integration, and strong community partnerships empower every student to reach their full potential and become future-ready learners!