Pedro Martinez

Pedro Martinez joined San Antonio ISD as superintendent in June 2015, bringing to the District a laser-like focus on improving academic achievement. He firmly believes students will rise to the challenge with the proper supports, and that by setting the bar high, many more students will demonstrate the aptitude and aspiration to perform at higher levels and be well-prepared for college and career. Martinez is a data-driven leader with a strong financial background and in-depth knowledge of academic reform strategies. In January 2016, Martinez unveiled the SAISD Blueprint for Excellence: Target 2020. The District set in motion the strategies outlined in the five-year plan in order to achieve 10 academic goals it has set. The plan is supported by five pillars: Academic Excellence, Talent Management, Culture Shift, Stakeholder Engagement and Fiscal Management. Under his leadership, the District is seeing improved graduation and college-going rates, as well as expanded access to rigor. Innovative schools have been developed and launched providing new models of education. In addition, strong academic programs in existing schools have been expanded to provide high-quality choice for families. Before coming to SAISD, Martinez was Superintendent-in-Residence for the Nevada Department of Education and was responsible for advising the Governor’s office and the State Superintendent of Instruction on education policy decisions. Prior to that, he served as superintendent for the 64,000-student Washoe County School District, covering the Reno, Nevada area. He also previously served as Chief Financial Officer at Chicago Public Schools, the nation’s third-largest school district, under the leadership of Arne Duncan, the former U.S. Secretary of Education. Martinez has more than 20 years of experience in the private, nonprofit and public education sectors. He holds an M.B.A. from DePaul University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He also is a graduate of the Broad Superintendents Academy.

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