Salinas Union High School District Welcomes Dr. Margarita Contreras as Principal of Salinas High School

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 8, 2026

Salinas Union High School District Welcomes Dr. Margarita Contreras as Principal of Salinas High School

SALINAS, Calif. — The Salinas Union High School District is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Margarita Contreras as Principal of Salinas High School, effective July 1, 2026.

Dr. Contreras brings 30 years of experience in education, serving as a teacher, site administrator, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and most recently as the Principal of Design Tech High School, a public high school in the SF Bay Area. She also serves as an Administrative Leadership Coach for the Monterey County Office of Education, where she supports site administrators across Monterey County.

"Selecting the next principal of Salinas High School was one of the most important decisions we could make," said Superintendent Dr. Zandra Jo Galván. "Throughout the interview process, Dr. Contreras impressed students, staff, parent representatives and the hiring committee with her authentic leadership, her passion for education, and her commitment to building meaningful relationships. We are excited to welcome her to the Cowboy family."

For Dr. Contreras, joining Salinas High School is especially meaningful. Her father worked in the Salinas Valley as part of the Bracero Program during the 1960s, creating a lasting connection to the community she now has the privilege to serve.

“Joining the Cowboy family is truly an honor,” said Dr. Contreras. “I’m excited to get to know our students and build relationships with our staff, families, and community. I look forward to working alongside them to build on the strengths that already make Salinas High such a special place.”

The Salinas Union High School District invites students, families, staff, alumni, and community members to welcome Dr. Contreras during a Community Open House and Meet & Greet on Wednesday, July 29, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Salinas High School, 726 S. Main St., Salinas, CA 93901. The event will provide an opportunity to meet Dr. Contreras, learn more about her leadership, and help welcome her to the Cowboy family.
 

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