![Dr. Tony Lara smiling]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1778796158/k3pbnkxjmt0ctmok7rk5/DrTonyLaraheadshot2026.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1778796158/k3pbnkxjmt0ctmok7rk5/DrTonyLaraheadshot2026.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1778796158/k3pbnkxjmt0ctmok7rk5/DrTonyLaraheadshot2026.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1778796158/k3pbnkxjmt0ctmok7rk5/DrTonyLaraheadshot2026.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1778796158/k3pbnkxjmt0ctmok7rk5/DrTonyLaraheadshot2026.png","width":1246}])
After eight years leading South Texas Independent School District (STISD) and a career spanning over 30 years in education, Superintendent Dr. Marco Antonio Lara, Jr. has announced his retirement, effective May 31.
Since joining STISD in November 2018, Dr. Lara has guided the district through a period of significant growth and achievement. Under his leadership, STISD has consistently exceeded state accountability standards, earned top state and national rankings, and expanded opportunities for students across the Rio Grande Valley.
Dr. Lara has overseen increases in student enrollment, the launch of a new all-virtual campus, the addition of the sixth grade for the first time in district history, and the expansion of academic, Career and Technical Education (CTE), fine arts, and athletic programs. He also strengthened partnerships with higher education institutions, including expanded dual enrollment pathways and ongoing collaboration with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and South Texas College, among others.
His tenure has been marked by a commitment to innovation, student success, and community impact—evident through initiatives such as the CTE Consortium, the Tri-County Special Education Cooperative, enhanced extracurricular offerings, and districtwide facility improvements. He also prioritized employee support through competitive compensation initiatives and recognition programs.
Named a 2022 Regional Superintendent of the Year for Region One, Dr. Lara brought extensive experience in education and public service to STISD, leaving a lasting legacy of growth, opportunity, and excellence across the district.
Of his experience as superintendent at STISD, Lara shares, “Serving STISD has been the honor of a lifetime. Together, we have expanded opportunities, strengthened partnerships, and created pathways for student success that will continue to make an impact for years to come. I look forward to seeing what’s ahead for STISD.”
Henry LeVrier, president of the STISD board of directors, shares a message of appreciation for Lara’s work at STISD, saying, “Under Dr. Lara’s leadership, STISD has experienced remarkable growth and achievement. His vision and dedication have positioned the district for continued success, and we are thankful for the legacy he leaves as we look ahead to the future. We wish him the best in this next chapter.”
STISD is comprised of four magnet high schools – South Texas ISD Health Professions, South Texas ISD Medical Professions, South Texas ISD Science Academy, and South Texas ISD World Scholars– as well as two middle schools – South Texas ISD Preparatory Academy and South Texas ISD Rising Scholars Academy – and one virtual campus that includes middle and high school – South Texas ISD Virtual Academy. All campuses are tuition-free and serve students from Cameron, Hidalgo and Willacy Counties. For more information, visit www.stisd.net.