The Laredo Independent School District Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Margarita Alejandra Peña as the Director of Student Health Services. With a rich background in nursing and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of LISD students, administrators, and staff, Peña brings a wealth of experience and passion to this vital role.
Peña began her educational journey at J.C. Martin Elementary School and Memorial Middle School. She graduated from J.B. Alexander Magnet School for Health and Science. In 2007, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Texas A&M International University. Post-graduation, Peña worked closely with Dr. Roberto Villarreal, Pediatric Cardiologist, fostering a deep love for medicine and child wellness.
Joining LISD Health Services in 2010, Peña started as a school nurse at Cigarroa Middle School, eventually transitioning to elementary schools, including Macdonell Elementary and Ryan Elementary School. In 2021, she became a Facilitator, training new staff, maintaining certifications, and ensuring compliance with state-mandated screenings and immunizations under the mentorship of Graciela Lopez, R.N.
Beyond LISD, Peña has also contributed to the private sector in home health and hospice care. Her diverse experiences have well prepared her for this new role, ready to lead the way to enhance the health services offered to LISD students.
Peña is not only a dedicated professional but also a devoted family person. She is married to Artemio Peña, Jr., with whom she has three boys and a recently welcomed baby girl. She enjoys spending time outdoors watching their children play sports.
"I am excited to take on this new role and work together with our Student Services Team, under the leadership of Assistant Superintendent for Student Services Maggie Martinez, to provide our very best to our Laredo ISD community and students,” said Peña. “I look forward to what the future holds for our Health Services Department. We have a very competent and strong team of nurses who are ready and willing to do all they can to care for our students so that they may achieve their goals this school year."