Sam Houston Administrators

Hilda Nañez, Principal

As a proud product of Galena Park ISD and a graduate of North Shore Senior High School, it is an absolute honor to serve the community that helped shape who I am today. I earned my Associate's degree from San Jacinto College North, my Bachelor's degree from the University of Houston–Clear Lake, and my Master's degree from St. Thomas University.

I am entering my 15th year in education and my 12th year in Galena Park ISD. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving as a Bilingual Teacher, an Interventionist/CIC, and, most recently, as the Assistant Principal at Sam Houston Elementary.

Now, as your principal, I am committed to leading with heart, building strong relationships, and creating a school culture where every student, staff member, and family feels seen, supported, and valued. I believe in the power of high expectations, student voice, and a team-centered approach. I am excited to partner with our families and staff as we explore new heights together this school year. When I’m not at school, I enjoy traveling and making memories with the people I love most.

Administrative Team

Mrs. Veronica Tovar

Veronica Tovar, Assistant Principal

Mrs. Tovar brings 25 years of dedicated service in education to her new role as Assistant Principal at Sam Houston Elementary. A proud graduate of Galena Park High School, she went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Houston Baptist University and a master’s degree from the University of St. Thomas. Throughout her career with Galena Park ISD, she has served as a bilingual teacher and as the school’s librarian, always committed to fostering a love of learning and supporting the success of every student. In her new role as Assistant Principal, she looks forward to continuing that mission by building strong relationships with students, staff, and families, and by supporting a positive and enriching school environment. When she is not at school, she enjoys spending time and making lasting memories with her husband and three children.

Mrs. Ilene Duran

Ilene Duran, Assistant Principal

Mrs. Duran has 18 years of experience serving students in Texas public schools, with the last 5 years in school administration at the elementary level. Most recently, she served as a teacher specialist in HISD. Mrs. Duran’s prior experience includes teaching early education and Dual Language at the elementary level and serving as a campus interventionist and district ESL instructional coach. She also served as assistant principal at Shadow Oaks Elementary School. She received her master's in educational leadership from the University of St. Thomas, and bachelor's degree from Texas Woman’s University in Interdisciplinary Studies. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband Robert, and her daughter Danielle. When not at school, she can usually be found spending time with her adult children Claudia, Agustin and Larissa. Mrs. Duran is looking forward to growing with the students, teachers and families at Sam!

Mrs. Stacy Macias

Stacy Macias, DLAC

Mrs Macias is a homegrown educator for GPISD. She received her Associates degree from San Jacinto College North, her Bachelor's degree from the University of Houston, and her Masters Degree from Lamar University. She has been a member of Galena Park ISD for 24 years. She served this district as a classroom teacher at Cobb 6th Grade Campus and now continues her service for Sam Houston Elementary as the technology specialist and testing coordinator.

In her spare time she enjoys going to the movies with her family, working at her local church, and watching football.

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