Promotional graphic with a blue grid-pattern background featuring a head-and-shoulders portrait of a person wearing a blue dress shirt and patterned tie. Large white text reads, “SELECTED BY TEA.” A red ribbon-shaped banner states, “STATE CTE LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE,” with smaller text below reading, “REPRESENTING ESC REGION 2.” Along the bottom, the Gregory-Portland Independent School District logo appears beside text identifying the individual as “Derek Villanueva, Director of CCMR and Counseling.” The design uses blue, red, white, and gray district branding colors.

Gregory-Portland ISD Director Selected to Help Shape the Future of Career and Technical Education in Texas

G-PISD Communications

July 28, 2026

Portland, Texas — Gregory-Portland Independent School District (G-PISD) will have a voice in shaping the future of Career and Technical Education (CTE) across Texas as Derek Villanueva, Director of College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) and Counseling, has been selected by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to serve on the 2026–2028 State CTE Leadership Committee, representing Education Service Center Region 2. 

Selected through a competitive application process, Villanueva will work directly with TEA's College, Career, and Military Preparation Division to help guide statewide CTE priorities, policies, and programs. As a member of the committee, he will collaborate with education leaders from across Texas to provide strategic feedback rooted in local and regional CTE experiences, helping strengthen opportunities that prepare students for success in college, careers, and military service. 

"Mr. Villanueva's appointment to the Texas Education Agency's State CTE Leadership Committee is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the outstanding work happening in Gregory-Portland ISD," said G-PISD Superintendent Dr. Michelle Cavazos. "His leadership will not only help shape Career and Technical Education across Texas, but it also reinforces our commitment to educating, inspiring, and empowering students through innovative pathways that prepare them for success in college, careers, military service, and beyond. This opportunity reflects our 2024–2030 Balanced Scorecard by supporting priority 1, exceptional student performance, and priority 2, high-performing and engaged workforce."

Villanueva's two-year term begins September 1, 2026. During his service, he will participate in quarterly leadership webinars, attend an in-person committee meeting, and work alongside fellow committee members to provide recommendations that advance Career and Technical Education across Texas. 

"I am honored to represent Region 2 on the State CTE Leadership Committee," said Derek Villanueva. "I look forward to collaborating with educators from across the state and sharing the perspectives of our students, teachers, and community as we work together to strengthen Career and Technical Education opportunities for all learners." 

Gregory-Portland ISD is committed to preparing every student for success beyond graduation by providing innovative Career and Technical Education programs that equip students with the knowledge, technical skills, and real-world experiences needed to thrive in college, careers, military service, and life. 

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