We are excited to share that Cynthia (Cyndy) Valdez will be joining us as the Interim Principal of Toppenish High School for the 2025–2026 school year. This appointment reflects our deep confidence in her ability to lead our high school community with care, vision, and excellence.

Cyndy brings over 20 years of leadership experience in education, including serving as an elementary and secondary principal, assistant principal, assistant director of special programs, and director of migrant and multilingual education. She has also supported learners of all ages, from PreK through adult education, and has been recognized both at the state level as Migrant Administrator of the Year and nationally as Project GLAD® Trainer of the Year.

Her background demonstrates a strong commitment to equity, engagement, and creating learning environments where all students feel valued. Biliterate and bicultural in English and Spanish, Cyndy is passionate about serving families across Washington and brings personal experience and perspective rooted in her own family’s history of migrant farm work.

The decision to move forward with an interim principal for the coming school year was made thoughtfully, based on feedback gathered during conversations with both staff and families. This interim structure will allow stability for the year ahead while also providing ample time for the district to continue to invest in a highly-focused effort for exploring qualified applicants.  By taking this approach, we are creating a pathway for highly qualified candidates, including Ms. Valdez, to apply for the ongoing role in the future.

We are confident that Cyndy’s extensive experience, proven leadership, and deep commitment to students, will serve our school community well. Please join us in warmly welcoming her to our Toppenish team!