BACK IN CLASS

Munoz takes reins as new leader

The Comfort Independent Schools opened the 2023-24 academic year Monday with a new superintendent in place and a hopeful outlook for the coming year.

Comfort’s board of trustees in July selected Dr. Yvonne Munoz as their new superintendent, her first opportunity to lead a district. Formerly the director of academic services in the San Diego ISD for the past four years, she began her career as an elementary teacher, followed by stints as a principal at both the elementary and secondary levels.

Munoz spent Monday familiarizing herself with her staff, as well as meeting parents and students at the district’s three campuses.

“Monday was my first official day and it was spent visiting the different campuses and getting to know everyone,” Munoz said. “While at the elementary cafeteria in the morning, I was able to see students excited to see their classmates.” Munoz also was recognized as an Outstanding Woman in Education by the Education Service Center, Region 2 in March 2022.

“Overall, I felt very welcomed by all, and I can definitely say that the first day of school went very smooth,” she added.

Munoz was not the only fresh face in a leadership role in Comfort. Amy Williams is the new elementary school principal, although the role is not her first-ever role as principal.

“The first day of school was exceptionally smooth,” Williams said. “We had happy students and teachers all around.

“Our attendance is down from the first day last year, but we expect an increase as we continue through the week into the school year,” Williams added.

“Comfort Middle School is off to a great start,” Middle School Principal Michael Colvin said. “It was a fantastic first day filled with smiles and laughter from returning students and teachers.”

Comfort High School Principal expressed similar sentiments about her staff and students.

“It was exciting to see the familiar faces of our returning students, meet our new enrollees, and welcome the incoming Class of 2028,” High School Principal Sarah Womble said. “If you spend a day with our students, you know why our staff loves working here.”

Munoz shared a brief glimpse at her plans for the coming year. During her time as the San Diego ISD director of academic services, Munoz played a role in improving their middle school campus rating from an “F” to a “B,” and to a “C” at the elementary campus.

“My number one priority for Comfort ISD is to ensure that all our students receive the best education possible no matter what. We will do this by making learning rigorous, relevant, and engaging for all,” Munoz said.

“As a leader of the district, I want to create a collaborative environment where everyone’s input is valued, and where everyone has a common vision for Comfort ISD,” she added.