Engagement and Service
As I prepare to bid farewell to my term as TASB president during the upcoming txEDCON24 in San Antonio, I find myself reflecting on a journey that began nearly two decades ago.
I still remember my first TASB conference in Dallas. I was a young trustee, eager to learn, make connections, and find ways to move my community forward. That conference, and many others since, became pivotal moments in my career, shaping my dedication to public education and my commitment to serve.
From those early days, txEDCON has grown to be more than just a conference for me. It has become a place where I connect with some of the state’s top education advocates, learn about innovative strategies, and gather insights on how to better the educational opportunities in my community. It’s a reunion of minds and hearts committed to the noble cause of public education. I look forward to seeing all of you in San Antonio, ready to share stories, challenges, and victories once more.
Completing My Term With Pride
This past year as TASB president has been one filled with immense pride and a few challenges. I am incredibly proud of the work TASB continues to do in advocating for public education. Our leaders are relentless in their pursuit of excellence, always seeking new ways to improve the lives of children across Texas. The strides we’ve made this year are a testament to their unwavering dedication and innovative spirit.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the TASB staff. Your diligence and support have made my presidency a smooth and fulfilling experience. Your knowledge, guidance, and patience have been invaluable, especially as I navigated the challenges of this role. Your commitment to our shared mission has been a blessing, and I am deeply thankful for your unwavering support.
My journey would not have been possible without the incredible support of the Canutillo and El Paso communities. This year marks the first time an El Pasoan has led TASB since the 1990s, and together we’ve demonstrated that the border is a leader in public education. The level of support for Texas public schools along the Texas-Mexico border is strong and vibrant. Canutillo, you provided me with a formative education and instilled in me a deep love for public service. For that, I am eternally grateful. ¡Viva Canutillo!
As I step down from the presidency, I am excited to continue serving TASB as past president. I am confident that incoming TASB President Rolinda Schmidt will lead with wisdom and vision. Her foresight and knowledge will undoubtedly help us achieve new goals and continue the important work of improving public education in Texas.
To all the trustees, educators, and advocates I’ve had the pleasure of working with, thank you. Your passion and dedication inspire me every day. As we gather in San Antonio for txEDCON24, let’s celebrate our achievements and gear up for the work ahead. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of children across Texas.
Armando Rodriguez, president of the Canutillo ISD board of trustees, is the 2023-24 president of TASB.
Armando Rodriguez
Rodriguez is serving his fifth term on the Canutillo ISD Board, where his fellow trustees have elected him as president, vice president, and secretary.
Professionally, he is the business development manager of Hellas Construction Inc. Rodriguez has the distinction of being one of the youngest people ever to be elected to office in El Paso County. A graduate of Canutillo High School and The University of Texas at El Paso, Rodriguez is one of the founding members of the Canutillo Alumni Foundation for Education — the only organization specifically designed to award scholarships to Canutillo graduates.
He currently serves on the board of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials and has also served as president of the Mexican American School Boards Association and president of the Far West Texas School Boards Association.
Rodriguez is a Leadership TASB graduate and Master Trustee.
