Classes for Dolores Sendejo and her new cohort in the PhD Leadership Studies program began on Aug. 17. Seventeen days later, Sendejo, Chief Academic Officer for South San Antonio Independent School District (SSAISD), was named Interim Superintendent for SSAISD.

The appointment was made during a district board meeting Tuesday night. In her new position, Sendejo will provide leadership and direction to administrative, instructional and support services staff in an effort to provide a quality education for all SSAISD students.

“It’s exciting to hear that Dolores will be representing the Department of Leadership Studies and OLLU in South San Antonio,” said Esther Gergen, PhD, associate professor and Leadership Studies program chair.

In addition to her new responsibilities, Sendejo will continue pursuing her PhD.

“The first two classes of my program have been a learning opportunity,” she said. “I am looking forward to many more sessions.”

Sendejo grew up in a family that worked in migrant fields in the Midwest and West Coast. Her parents migrated across the country, about every three months, from California to Ohio and Michigan. 

Despite the frequent moves, Sendejo says her parents placed a priority on her education.

Before joining SSAISD in July, Sendejo worked as a vice principal and principal. She served Jubilee Charter School as an Associate Superintendent for five years.