Principal
David R. Canales recently was appointed as Principal at United Middle School in July 2007 and looks forward working with the community, parents, students and staff.
David R. Canales also served as the Engineering Magnet Dean at United High School from 2000-2007.
As the instructional leader he provided leadership in the design, implementation and management of the school’s engineering and technology program. The program is involved in robotics, engineering competitions, study of the big bend environment, and provides students with internship opportunities.
Canales credits his parents for his personal accomplishments. “My life accomplishments are a tribute to my late father, Rogelio Canales, a teacher for over 35 years at Christian Union, Holding and Lamar Middle School, and late mother, Harriet Canales, a teacher at Holding and Christian Middle School.” said Canales.
His ten year ascension from teacher to director began in January 1990 at L.J. Christen Middle School where he taught sixth grade General Science and seventh grade Life Science. His career at UISD began during the summer of 1990 at United High School as an eighth grade Earth Science teacher. Canales then taught Physical Science and Physics at United South High School between 1990 and 1992.
In 1992, Canales was named Chairperson for the Science Department at United South High where he taught Physical Science and implemented numerous courses and Science-related programs. For example, he implemented United South’s first Meteorology and Environmental courses. Additionally, he implemented the first OFS weather satellite technology and weather station, monitored the implementation of the first School Ham Radio Station, oversaw many water quality testing projects and the list of his accomplishments is endless.
Canales was named and served as Assistant Principal of United South High School from 1995 to 2000. During this tenure, he supervised staff, served on a number of committees and contributed immensely to the school’s administrative leadership.
In 2000, Canales was named Director of the United Engineering and Technology Magnet School, the position he presently holds. Prior to August 2004, Canales headed the only engineering magnet school within a 150 mile radius. UISD graduated its first group of magnet students in May 2004. Mr. Canales believes the true heroes of education are teachers. He is extremely grateful of the engineering staff and is proud of there dedication and commitment to the program. The countless hours’ teachers commit to their students and subject area is cherished. He thanks them all making the program what it is today.
Canales obtained an Associate of Arts degree from Laredo Junior College in May 1987, a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education in 1989 and Master of Science degree in Education with a Mid-Management Certificate from Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) in May 1994. He obtained his Superintendent Certificate from TAMIU in December 2001 and is currently enrolled in the Doctoral Program at Texas A&M University (TAMU) - College Station pursuing a Doctorate (Ph.D.) degree in Educational Administration. Canales holds various professional certifications.