DINA CANO
McAllen,Texas
Summary
I’m a results-driven school leader with over a decade of experience guiding a high-performing, A-rated campus that earned all TEA distinctions. I’ve led major gains in CCMR, industry certifications, and dual-enrollment opportunities for all students.
I’m known for collaborative leadership, strong curriculum and staff development skills, and a reliable, adaptable approach that consistently delivers meaningful academic results.education.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Principal
Vanguard Academy – Rembrandt Secondary
07.2022 - Current
- Drive campus-wide performance resulting in an A-rating and all TEA distinctions by consistently meeting with leadership team and building systems that were focused on Instructional Leadership.
- Built and retained a high-performing team with 93% staff retention.
- Coached and developed instructional leaders and teachers, leading to sustained student achievement.
- Implemented Amplify, Savvas, and Bluebonnet Math Curriculum and monitored teacher fidelity and implementation.
- Partnered with CTE and academic departments to align programming with student postsecondary goals.
- Oversaw compliance and implementation of Special Education, Section 504, MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports), Advanced Placement, and Bilingual Education programs across campuses.
- Provided training and guidance to campus administrators, equipping them to specialize in program-specific requirements and best practices.
- Served as ARD Administrator, collaborating closely with Educational Diagnosticians to develop individualized academic and functional goals aligned with each student's needs.
Assistant Principal
Vanguard Academy – Rembrandt Secondary
06.2021 - 06.2022
- Coordinated behavior systems and family engagement efforts.
- Supported STAAR preparation and led PLCs across content areas.
- Campus Testing Coordinator, AP Coordinator, and Bilingual Coordinator in charge of Compliance and all duties assigned pertaining to the role.
- Led operational meetings, safety and security committees, and community outreach partnerships.
Assistant Principal of Instruction
IDEA Public Schools - IDEA Pharr Academy
07.2017 - 06.2020
- Led instructional coaching, weekly data meetings, and teacher development.
- Oversaw STAAR preparation, curriculum implementation, and campus-wide academic systems, such as student persistence.
- Contributed to strong campus academic gains and teacher retention.
- Implemented Eureka Math Curriculum and Wit & Wisdom Curriculum and monitored teacher fidelity and implementation.
5th Grade Science Teacher
IDEA Public Schools – IDEA Academy San Juan
08.2014 - 05.2017
- Exceeded student growth goals on STAAR assessments earning Science Distinction for the campus 3 years in a row.
- Served as grade-level lead and supported STEM initiatives.
Education
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction
University of Texas At Arlington
12-2017
Bachelor of General Studies - undefined
University of Texas Pan American
01.2013
Skills
- Leadership Capacity Building
- Staff management
- Verbal and written communication
- Training and mentoring
- Time-Management
- Data Analysis
- Fluent in Spanish
Accomplishments
- Led an A-Rated Campus with 100% of TEA distinctions earned, reflecting excellence in instruction, student growth, and closing achievement gaps.
- Achieved 100% CCMR readiness for graduating seniors.
- Secured Industry-Based Certifications for 97% of graduates.
- Enabled 62% of graduating students to earn Associate’s Degrees through dual enrollment and college partnerships.
- Maintained a 93% staff retention rate, fostering a strong culture and high teacher satisfaction.
Certification
- Texas Principal Certification
- T-TESS Certified Appraiser
- AEL Certification
Timeline
Principal
Vanguard Academy – Rembrandt Secondary
07.2022 - Current
Assistant Principal
Vanguard Academy – Rembrandt Secondary
06.2021 - 06.2022
Assistant Principal of Instruction
IDEA Public Schools - IDEA Pharr Academy
07.2017 - 06.2020
5th Grade Science Teacher
IDEA Public Schools – IDEA Academy San Juan
08.2014 - 05.2017
Bachelor of General Studies - undefined
University of Texas Pan American
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction
University of Texas At Arlington