Mentoring students and athletes have long been a passion for new Fort Stockton Middle School Principal Sammy Soliz.

It’s why the Morton, Texas native entered the career field as a teacher and coach 17 years ago.

After spending 12 years as a coach and teacher at the Pecos Barstow Independent School District to begin his teaching career, Soliz decided to head to Fort Stockton and take on a similar role at the high school.

“I started off as a head basketball coach and PE teacher, assistant football coach. Three years after that I jumped into assistant principal as well as coaching basketball and football,” he said.

Soliz entered the administrative side of the profession with the two goals in mind – have greater impact on students’ success and help guide teachers to become better educators.

“The thing was, being a coach I was working with students. Most of the time it was with the athletes and then I wanted to jump into the administration to help out more students instead of just athletes. That’s why I got my master’s in administration,” Soliz explained. “This opportunity arose where I was able to work with our athletes as well as being an assistant principal. So, I got that under my belt the last couple of years and now this year being the AP (only) opened my eyes to coaching teachers.”

Soliz was officially named the Fort Stockton Middle School Principal at the district’s regular board meeting on April 27.

Fort Stockton ISD Superintendent Dr. Gabriel Zamora said that Soliz was a great fit for the position and will continue to grow as a professional under assistant superintendent Gil-Rey Madrid, who oversees the middle school campus in addition to his administrative duties.

“I think he’s proven himself already as a solid individual and administrator that is pro fessional and courteous to all. He deserves respect because he gives respect. It’s well deserving, and I think he’s going to do the district proud,” Zamora said of Soliz. “For him to have a fresh start with students who may know who he is but haven’t experienced his leadership, I think is the perfect opportunity for him to continue growing as an administrator and develop his skillset under the mentorship of Mr. Madrid. Now you’re talking about having worked with two great individuals (Roy Alvarado as well).”

Soliz, who received his Bachelor of Science at West Texas A&M in Canyon and his master’s degree at Sul Ross University, will start his new role before the current school year is over.

The 42-year-old voice his appreciation for those who have helped become the professional he is today at Fort Stockton ISD.

“I’m thankful for all of the high school staff and faculty that have helped me grow as a person and as an administrator. I look forward to working with staff at the middle school.”