Mercedes ISD is proud to announce Mrs. Cecilia I. Sarmiento as principal of the new Sgt. William G. Harrell Elementary School.
A dedicated educator and proud graduate of the University of Texas–Pan American, Mrs. Sarmiento began her journey in education as a bilingual teacher at Zachary Taylor Elementary. She went on to serve as a math and science interventionist and ACE coordinator at Ruben Hinojosa Elementary, focusing on targeted instruction to help students build foundational skills and confidence. Mrs. Sarmiento later returned to Taylor Elementary, serving as assistant principal and, most recently, principal.
She now takes on the role of principal at Sgt. William G. Harrell Elementary, one of the district’s three STEAM+ campuses set to launch this fall. The campus will offer rich learning experiences in science, technology, arts, and math, along with access to outdoor learning spaces, sensory room, and a fine arts program.
“I’m excited to build a school community where every child is empowered to explore, imagine, and reach their full potential in an environment that celebrates both academic rigor and creative expression,” Sarmiento said. “I look forward to partnering with families, staff, and the wider community to make this school a place where learning comes to life.”