By Edmond Ortiz
The San Antonio Independent School District will begin its 2026-2027 academic year with a new permanent superintendent at the helm.
What you should know
SAISD trustees voted July 20 to confirm Adrian Bustillos as the district’s top appointed leader. Bustillos just finished a state-mandated 21-day period which began June 24 when the school board named Bustillos the lone finalist for superintendent.
Bustillos succeeds Jaime Aquino, who is retiring at the end of this year after more than four years as SAISD’s superintendent. Toni Thompson, SAISD’s current chief of staff, recently served as interim superintendent.
Bustillos earned a bachelor’s degree in biological science from the University of Texas-El Paso, and a master’s degree in school leadership. He earned a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from New Mexico State University, according to a press release.
Bustillos has spent 20-plus years in education, starting as a science teacher at the El Paso Independent School District, the release stated. He then served as an assistant principal and a facilitator at EPISD before becoming executive director of the district’s office of transformation.
He later joined Aldine Independent School District, where he has been chief transformation officer since 2019, overseeing special programs and learning models such as dual language, Montessori, International Baccalaureate, health science, early college high school, and P-TECH options. He also has overseen college, career and military readiness, career and technical education, and online learning systems.
SAISD officials said Bustillos has a solid foundation in curriculum development, instructional coaching, and school improvement. SAISD leaders cited Bustillos’ participation in nationally recognized programs and fellowships such as the MIT School Access and Quality Fellowship, and Rice University’s Business Certificate in Executive Education Leadership in their decision to hire him as the district’s new superintendent.
What they are saying
Bustillos said he envisions a place where all students feel “valued, challenged, and inspired, and where innovative learning opportunities, strong community partnerships, and a culture of belonging prepare all students for success in college, career, and life.”
“Together, we will build on our strengths, embrace new possibilities, and ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. I am excited to begin this journey alongside you,” he added in a statement.
SAISD board President Alicia Sebastian praised Bustillos’ experience in leading transformational programs and initiatives in public education settings. Bustillos will lead a school district that has various challenges, including declining student enrollment, budgetary concerns, and closure of some campuses and the relegation of other schools to management by charter school organizations.
“We are impressed with his reputation as a visionary and collaborative leader who brings people together around a shared mission of educating students, and we are excited to introduce him to our SAISD familia,” Sebastian added in a statement.
Bustillos said he understands the challenges that face SAISD, but wants to meet employees and community members to help with solutions.
“I look forward to listening, building relationships, and working alongside our dedicated educators and families to ensure every student has the opportunities, support, and encouragement they need to thrive,” he said in a statement.
SAISD’s appointment of a new permanent superintendent immediately follows the Northside Independent School District’s decision to appoint an interim superintendent in its process to find a new permanent district leader.
