San Antonio’s Southside is home to a very special community of creators, hard workers, and people that inspire—many of whom are leaders across the City. Our Southside Makers and Shakers blog series celebrates Southsiders making their mark. Each addition to the series offers new insight into the community and the gente that make the Southside so unique.
In this blog, we meet the current Principal of McAuliffe Middle School, upcoming principal of Southwest Legacy High School, and Principal Secondary Finalist of the 2023 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards: Roxie Freeman.
Interview With Roxie Freeman
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Roxie Freeman. I began my now 16-year education career as a special education inclusion teacher and then taught middle school math. After receiving my Masters degree from UTSA I became an administrator, and am currently completing my sixth year as a Principal while also pursuing my doctorate degree. I am a wife and a proud mother of two sons.
Roxie with her husband and two sons
What inspired you to become a leader on the Southside, and what keeps you motivated to continue your work?
My undergraduate degree was in Criminal Justice, I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. My mother-in-law suggested education and I immediately fell in love. I quickly realized I wanted to help students learn, grow and dream. I wanted to be the adult for them that I needed in school. My students and community are the motivation I need to give public education everything our students deserve.
How do you give back to San Antonio, foster collaboration, and build partnerships with other organizations and leaders?
We give back to San Antonio by preparing students to enter the workforce or college. Most of our students have grown up in this community and so have their parents. Establishing positive relationships and high expectations will help cultivate them to become successful members within our community.
Roxie Freeman with SWISD Students
Looking to the future, what initiatives or projects are you most excited about, and how do you believe they will benefit our city and its residents?
I have been named the Principal for Southwest Legacy High School for the upcoming school year and I look forward to working with our students to prepare them to become active, successful members in their community. They have endless potential and I cannot wait to see the amazing things they will do for San Antonio’s southside.
Roxie Freeman with Former SWISD Superintendent, Lloyd Verstuyft and Current SWISD Superintendent, Jeanette Ball
What makes the Southside unique compared to other parts of San Antonio?
We have not been showcased for all of the positive things happening. We have grit, resilience and determination.
Principal Secondary Finalist of the 2023 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards: Roxie Freeman
Where can folks find more about Southwest ISD and the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards?
Southwest ISD: https://www.swisd.net/
H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards: https://heblovesteachers.com/