Principal's Message

My name is Gracie Martinez and it is an honor to introduce myself as the new principal of an innovative and extraordinary school community. I can assure you that I share in this district’s commitment to caring for our students each and every day while providing them a world-class learning environment.

The 2023-2024 school year will mark my 31^st year in education all at San Benito CISD. I have served as the principal at La Encantada for 14 years, as an assistant principal for two years, a GEAR UP coordinator for 5 years, and began my career as a middle school teacher at Miller Jordan Middle School. I enjoyed teaching but it is as a principalship where I have found my most fulfilling work. The principalship provides me the chance to work collaboratively with teachers daily, while also remaining connected to the classroom and to all parents.

Throughout my career at La Encantada Elementary, the staff and I have worked to ensure the success of all students. La Encantada Elementary is currently an A campus with 6 distinctions. I firmly believe that every child can excel when provided with a premier gold standard education and that the partnership between home and school builds confidence in students.

I am committed to always exploring new ways to meet the needs of all students and to more effectively communicate with parents and community members in order to promote open communication and shared goals. To our students, I am looking forward to a great year. I hope you are excited and eager to enjoy a school year filled with opportunities for success.

In closing, please know that my door is always open to you. I heartily welcome your conversation and positive input throughout this year. Let us always keep our students the primary focus of our work. I look forward to celebrating our collective successes during the 2023-2024 school year.