District Names New Principal for Hambrick Middle School

Aldine ISD is pleased to announce that José Almendarez has been selected as the new principal for Hambrick Middle School. Almendarez will continue to lead at Sammons Elementary School through the end of the year while transitioning to Hambrick MS. He will ensure several tasks and projects are completed at Sammons before he leaves, while also meeting the teams at Hambrick MS to develop plans for the 2020-2021 school year.

Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, Superintendent of Schools, stated, “José brings a wealth of experience to our amazing team of principals. His commitment to student success, understanding of how to support teachers and their work, and willingness to build on our plan to ensure our students have access to high-quality schools and learning experiences are evident in the work he has been doing in Aldine. I can’t wait to see his plans and ideas in action at Hambrick Middle School!”

Almendarez received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas-San Antonio and his master’s degree in administration from Sam Houston State University.

Almendarez began his educational career 25 years ago in San Antonio. He started as a mathematics teacher at an alternative school in Southwest ISD. Longing to give back to his hometown, Carrizo Springs, Alemdarez joined the local public school district with the same name. He served as a mathematics teacher, as well as coached the football and varsity baseball teams. Almendarez also served his community as an adult ESL educator.

Seeking professional growth, Almendarez moved to Houston in 1999 to join Aldine ISD. Almendarez helped open MacArthur Ninth Grade School, where he taught algebra for three years. Almendarez went on to serve in several campus leadership positions, including as an assistant principal at Hambrick Middle School, Nimitz Ninth Grade School, and Lewis Middle School. In 2012, Almendarez accepted the principalship at Sammons Elementary.

“I believe my experience has provided me with a solid foundation to grow as a leader,” said Almendarez. “It is exciting to be back at Hambrick Middle School, and I look forward to working with families, staff, and students.”

Almendarez will report directly to Chief of Schools Katy Roede, who is looking forward to working with Almendarez in his new position.

“I am excited that José will take the helm at Hambrick Middle School! He is a respected instructional leader by his colleagues and has established strong ties to the communities he serves,” said Roede. “Jose’s leadership is not loud or flashy but rather focused on consistency and true collaboration.”