Lincoln Middle School Principal Honored with Hispanic Educator Award

SAN ANGELO, TX — Lincoln Middle School Principal Joe Gandar was honored with the Carol Santry Hispanic Educator Award during the Hispanic Heritage Month Banquet on Sept. 27, recognizing his dedication to education, cultural understanding, and service to San Angelo students.

Presented by the Hispanic Heritage Museum and Cultural Center, the award honors educators who exemplify the spirit of Carol Santry, a longtime advocate for celebrating Hispanic culture through teaching and mentorship, according to information released by the school district. 

Gandar, in his 23rd year with San Angelo ISD, has served as a teacher, at-risk coordinator, assistant principal, and principal at Carver Learning Center. He is now in his fifth year leading Lincoln Middle School, where his leadership helped the campus earn the national distinction of Texas School to Watch.

In 2021, Gandar was named Region 15 Secondary Principal of the Year by the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals for his work in preparing students for success in a "global community."

“Mr. Gandar’s personal journey and life story is a testimony of his perseverance and explains why he loves his students as he does,” said San Angelo ISD Superintendent Dr. Christopher Moran. “Mr. Gandar’s staff and students are fortunate to have a caring and dedicated principal leading Lincoln Middle School.”

"Mr. Gandar exemplifies the characteristics of the SAISD Educator Profile through his commitment to students and staff, providing each learner with an inspiring educational experience that prepares them to be future-ready, whatever that future may hold," information states. "We extend a heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Gandar on this well-deserved honor and look forward to Lincoln’s continued success under his leadership. He is a shining example of how, at SAISD, our people make the difference."