Laredo Independent School District has named Aida Ponce as the new Coordinator of Jose A. Valdez High School. With more than 25 years of experience in public education, including 10 years in administrative roles, Ponce brings a strong foundation in academic leadership, student advocacy, and restorative education practices.
In her new position, Ponce will lead the district’s recovery-based high school program, which provides targeted academic and behavioral support to students from Martin, Nixon, and Cigarroa High Schools. Valdez High School, Laredo’s first non-traditional campus, is designed to help students navigate personal challenges, recover academic credits, and develop the confidence and life skills necessary to transition successfully back to their home campuses or graduate with a renewed sense of purpose. Ponce’s previous roles as assistant principal at Martin High School and principal at Gateway Academy have equipped her with the vision and experience to lead this unique campus with empathy, structure, and innovation.
“It is an honor to have this opportunity to cultivate a holistic approach to student development, where the Falcon Team’s role as mentors and educators extends beyond academic achievement,” said Ponce. “Our commitment includes fostering well-rounded individuals who not only succeed in their studies but also develop vital life skills such as emotional intelligence, social awareness, and coping mechanisms for mental health. This comprehensive approach will prepare students for a successful re-entry into their home campuses and equip them to navigate the complexities of life after graduation.”
Ponce’s leadership is grounded in mentorship, accountability, and a strong belief in student potential. At Martin High School, she helped lead the campus to the highest attendance rate in the district for two consecutive years and guided the science department to top scores on state assessments. She has received multiple district recognitions, including the “You Make the Difference” Award in Discipline and “Leading the Way” honors in all four categories.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Psychology and a Master of Science in Public Administration from Texas A&M International University. In addition, she holds Principal Certification, Evaluator Certification, Instructional Leadership Development Certification, Behavior Threat Assessment Certification, Mental Health First Aid Certification, and EVOLV Academy Training Certification. These credentials, combined with her hands-on experience, have positioned her as a compassionate and capable leader dedicated to student success.
Ponce envisions Valdez as a place of growth, healing, and possibility. Her leadership will focus on empowering students to rebuild trust in their educational journey, while ensuring that they receive the personalized attention and guidance needed to thrive.
"Over the past 25 years as an educator, I have learned the importance of communication, collaboration, and developing a supportive environment where students can thrive through challenges, not in spite of them. Also, the importance of celebrating every single accomplishment, because as insignificant as a simple paper certificate may seem, the pride and confidence the student feels can be the catalyst for the pursuit of further success," said Ponce.