FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Principal Named for Casa Grande Union High School
April 22, 2026 — The Casa Grande Union High School District Governing Board has unanimously approved the hiring of Frank Armenta as the next principal of Casa Grande Union High School. The board voted 5–0 to appoint Armenta, who will officially begin his role on July 1, 2026, ahead of the 2026–2027 school year.
Armenta brings more than two decades of experience in education as a teacher, school administrator, and district leader. He currently serves as Assistant Superintendent for Leadership and Student Success in the Tucson Unified School District, where he oversees several departments focused on student achievement, leadership development, alternative education, and student support services.
Prior to his district leadership role, Armenta served as principal of Cholla High School in Tucson, where he led a comprehensive high school of more than 1,700 students. In that role, he supervised assistant principals and department chairs while guiding instructional programs and strategic planning efforts that supported college and career readiness. His work included oversight of programs such as International Baccalaureate, AVID, Dual Credit, and Advanced Placement.
Earlier in his career, Armenta served as assistant principal at Santa Rita High School, vice principal at Rio Rico High School, and a teacher at Sahuaro High School. Throughout his career, he has focused on improving school culture and climate, mentoring educators and school leaders, and implementing programs that support student success.
Last week, Armenta met with the Casa Grande Union High School staff during a forum where he introduced himself, answered questions, and connected with teachers and staff members.
"I want to thank the Casa Grande Union High School District Governing Board and Superintendent Jeff Lavender for their approval and trust in me as the next principal of Casa Grande Union High School. Being given the opportunity to lead a school with a 100-year history is a rare privilege, and I am honored to serve the Union community. I look forward to working with our students, teachers, support staff, and our incredible alumni to celebrate the past achievements while relentlessly Inspiring Excellence for the Class of 2027 and beyond."
Superintendent Jeff Lavender says Armenta’s extensive leadership experience and commitment to students made him the right choice to lead the school.
“Mr. Armenta’s background as a teacher, principal, and district leader gives him a deep understanding of what schools need to succeed,” Mr. Lavender said. “We are excited to welcome him to Casa Grande Union High School and look forward to the leadership he will bring to the campus.”
Armenta will begin working with district leadership and school staff in the coming months to ensure a smooth transition as he prepares to lead Casa Grande Union High School into the 2026–2027 school year.