Eagle Spotlight: Dr. Peña
For Dr. Peña, leadership is rooted in results — turning vision into measurable outcomes that strengthen schools and expand opportunity for students.
Dr. Peña serves as executive director of school leadership for DeSoto ISD and brings more than 20 years of experience improving systems, accelerating student achievement and advancing equity across Texas school districts. His work is shaped by a deep understanding of diverse communities, family engagement and the importance of culturally responsive leadership in public education.
Guided by the PRIDE value of results, Dr. Peña focuses on aligning goals with action and outcomes, ensuring campus leaders have the tools, data and support needed to drive academic success.
Before joining DeSoto ISD, Dr. Peña held senior leadership roles including superintendent of Hutto ISD, chief talent officer and chief of schools in Fort Worth ISD, and executive director in Dallas ISD. His leadership contributed to districtwide academic growth, expanded early college access, increased college and career readiness and the strategic use of data systems to improve performance.
Under his guidance, Fort Worth ISD improved its state accountability rating and launched districtwide initiatives that expanded equitable access to advanced coursework, strengthened social-emotional learning supports and increased parent and community engagement.
Dr. Peña is also known for balancing strong instructional outcomes with fiscal responsibility. His experience includes overseeing multimillion-dollar bond initiatives, leading staffing realignment strategies and launching teacher pipeline programs designed to strengthen recruitment and retention.
A collaborative leader, Dr. Peña has worked alongside organizations including the George W. Bush Institute, Commit Partnership and Dallas College, and has contributed to statewide initiatives such as the Teacher Incentive Allotment.
A lifelong learner, he holds a doctorate in educational administration and policy from the University of Texas and maintains certifications as a superintendent, principal and bilingual/ESL educator. He is an active member of professional organizations including TASA, TASB and Phi Kappa Phi.
In his current role, Dr. Peña provides strategic oversight and coaching to campus principals, aligning school goals with district priorities and accountability measures. Through collaboration and data-informed decision making, he continues to help build high-performing schools that meet the diverse needs of DeSoto ISD students and families.