My name is Jonathan, and this is my second year as an educational leader in HISD. As my first year in administration comes to an end, I am most proud of serving all my students by focusing on the "whole child." I give hope to my students, spark the love of learning for many, and help them make tremendous academic growth. By implementing research-driven reading strategies campus-wide, I helped to improved ELA scores by 31 percent last year. I share a similar background and can relate to what most of my students go through in life. I am the son of immigrants who fled war and turmoil in El Salvador, and my experiences shape the way I approach my leadership. I hold my middle school students to the highest standards, and I ensure to provide the tools they need to rise to the occasion. As a result of my passion and hard work, I was honored to be awarded Administrator of the Year for the 2022-2023 school year on my campus. I am thrilled to be returning to Key MS to continue onwards and upwards. I began my teaching career in Houston ISD through Teach For America. While attending the University of Texas, I mentored several young males in middle and high school from dire backgrounds and environments. As a result, I knew I had to give teaching a try and came home to Houston to serve in TFA. I planned on attending law school after my two-year commitment, but I fell in love with education and decided to become a life-long educator and leader. During this time, I earned my master’s degree in education through Johns Hopkins University, the number one education program in the nation. I also earned my principal certification from Rice University’s Principal as an Instructional Leader program. My current goal is to provide all students the skills and knowledge they to survive and thrive in our 21st century climate. I yearn to see my students being self-sufficient, providing for themselves and their families, and establishing a legacy that their future generations will be proud of.