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Monte Alto ISD announced in a news release the appointment of an interim superintendent Tuesday, following its superintendent’s resignation to pursue new opportunities.
In addition to Filomena Leo’s appointment during a school board meeting Monday, the district has also officially opened the superintendent position to applicants. Applications for the position will be accepted until noon on Nov. 7.
“I am honored to serve Monte Alto ISD during this transition period and look forward to working with the Board, staff, and community to ensure our students continue to thrive,” Leo said in a news release. “Together, we will maintain the high standards of education that this district is known for.”
Leo has previously served as interim superintendent for multiple school districts across the Valley, including at Mercedes, Donna and Weslaco. She holds a Doctorate of Educational Leadership from the University of Texas-Pan American, now the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, in addition to extensive experience in instructional leadership, facilities management and financial planning for school improvement.
“Dr. Leo is an exceptional leader who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our district,” board president Connie Villanueva said in the release. “We are confident that her leadership will guide us through this transition as we search for a permanent superintendent.”
Leo’s appointment follows Isaac Rodriguez’s decision to step down from his role, which was effective Sept. 25, the release stated.
“The decision for Dr. Rodriguez’s departure is the result of mutual agreement, and both parties have expressed gratitude for their successful partnership over the past few years,” the district said in the release.
Rodriguez took the helm in April 2021, following former superintendent Rosie Cobarrubias’ retirement that same year. During his tenure, Rodriguez is credited with leading Monte Alto ISD through pivotal changes and improvements in academic performance, student engagement and community partnerships, according to the release.
“It has been a true honor to serve as Superintendent of Monte Alto ISD,” Rodriguez said in the news release. “I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together, from increasing student achievement to fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.
In a post published to the district’s Facebook page, Rodriguez listed various initiatives they’ve accomplished together, including teachers receiving a $3,200 increase for the 2024-2025 school year, bolstering the safety and security at the district’s facilities, hourly employees receiving a 6% pay increase for the 2024-2025 school year and the passing of a voter approved tax ratification election that provided additional revenue to the district.
“I look forward to the district’s continued success and am excited about the next chapter in my career,” Rodriguez said, with the release noting that his decision to step down from his role of superintendent was to pursue new opportunities.
“Both the district and Dr. Rodriguez have agreed to part ways amicably, with a shared focus on maintaining stability and continuity for the students and staff of Monte Alto ISD,” the release stated.
