Mr. Barraza, Principal
Meet Mr. Gilbert Barraza Jr. He is the honored Principal of Sparks Elementary School in HLPUSD, CA. He is now proudly serving in his seventh year in this role.
Principal Barraza is dedicated to providing exceptional educational experience for his students, faculty and staff. Moreover, Principal Barraza is excited to announce the extension of two district programs being implemented at Sparks Elementary School. The first program is the New Pedagogies for Deep Learning (NPDL), aimed at fostering innovative teaching methods and empowering students to become critical thinkers and lifelong learners. The second program is in partnership with UC Davis C-STEM, providing opportunities for students to engage in computer science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, equipping them with essential skills for the future.
Principal Barraza's passion for education, commitment to excellence, and the implementation of these signature programs ensure that Sparks Elementary School continues to thrive, providing students with a well-rounded and enriching educational experience. With his leadership and the dedication of the Sparks team, the 2024-2025 school year promises to be an exciting and successful journey for all. This years school theme is “Growing hearts and minds” integrated with our district theme, “Transformative Learning: Pathways For Student Success.”
Outside of his role as a principal, Mr. Barraza leads a fulfilling personal life. He is happily married and the proud parent of four successful college graduates who have embarked on their respective careers. Furthermore, he cherishes the presence of his six grandchildren, who bring immense joy to his family. As a lifelong fan of the Dodgers, Lakers, Clippers, LA Chargers and Dallas Cowboys, Principal Barraza's passion for sports shines through.
Mr. Barraza's educational journey began at the University of Texas at El Paso, where he obtained his bachelor's degree in Education in 1989. He then started his teaching career at Hanks High School in El Paso, Texas, serving as an English teacher and Activities Director. Recognizing the importance of continued professional growth, he earned a Master's degree in Educational Administration from New Mexico State University in 2001.
Throughout his career, Principal Barraza has held various administrative positions in California and Texas, demonstrating his dedication to enhancing educational institutions. Notable among his roles are serving as the Pasadena Athletic and Title IX Director in PUSD, CA, from 2016 to 2018, and as Principal of Pasadena High School in PUSD, Pasadena, CA whereby successful pathways and 22 AP courses were built, from 2010 to 2016. Additionally, he made significant contributions as the Principal of Calexico High School in CUSD, Calexico, CA, from 2004 to 2010. Both high schools under his leadership earned a 6 year WASC accreditation with a 3 year review. Additionally, both high schools were recognized as U.S. News and World Report Education Silver award recognized for college readiness to name a few metrics. In the earlier years of his career, Mr. Barraza served as an elementary school Assistant Principal and high school English Teacher and Activities Director for Ysleta ISD El Paso, TX.
One of Principal Barraza's proudest accomplishments lies in the outstanding achievements of his dedicated Calexico HS faculty, staff, and administration. Under their teamwork, 17 students from his high school were awarded the prestigious Gates Millennium Scholars Program Scholarships. These achievements underscore the commitment he has in preparing students for higher education.
Mr. Barraza was recently honored with the UC Davis C-STEM Administrator of the Year Award!
This award shines a light on Mr. Barraza’s passionate commitment and innovative leadership in bringing computing and STEM education to life at our school.
With Mr. Barraza at the helm, the C-STEM program has soared to new heights, igniting a spark of creativity and excellence. His dedication ensures students have a key to unlock the door to a world full of possibilities. His support for our C-STEM teachers has transformed teaching into a shared adventure of learning and success.
Join us in celebrating Mr. Barraza’s remarkable achievements and the high bar he sets in C-STEM education. His vision is guiding our students toward a bright future, one discovery at a time.
Bravo, Mr. Barraza! 🎉