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Campus Information

Year Open:

Bond Year:

School Mascot: Mavericks

School colors: Royal Blue, Black, Grey

Mission Statement:
Transform the Learning Experience for Students.

Our Vision:
Every day, every student grows in confidence, curiosity, and capability.

Our Belief:
โ€ข WE believe KIDS come first, and we make all decisions with that in mind!
โ€ข WE will establish a culture that supports Maverick Pride.
โ€ข WE will prioritize building character and integrity in our students.
โ€ข WE will acknowledge and celebrate the differences among us.
โ€ข WE will work collaboratively with one another to support our students.
โ€ข WE will uphold excellence in all we do!

Wendi Autumn Peralta
Wendi Autumn Peralta - Principal
With over 18 years of dedicated experience in education, I currently serve as the principal at Straus Middle School. My journey in the educational field began as a General Education Teacher in English Language Arts (ELA), followed by roles as a Reading Specialist, Department Coordinator in ELA, and an Intervention Specialist. I hold a Bachelor's degree from the University of Incarnate Word, a Master's degree in Reading and Literacy from UTSA, and a Principal Certification from Lamar University.

My passion lies in fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for both students and staff, focusing on building strong, meaningful relationships. I believe in the power of empathy and understanding in addressing the unique behaviors and needs of middle school students. My goal is to create a school atmosphere where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their best.
Araceli Farias
Araceli Farias - Associate Principal

The Associate Principal also serves as the Campus Behavior Coordinator. They can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at (210) 398-2565.

A native of San Benito, Texas, Ms. Farias-Vasquez moved to San Antonio to attend the University of Texas-San Antonio to pursue her B.S in Biology, B.A in Criminal Justice, and her M.A in Education. Ms. Farias-Vasquez has been in education since 2005 and has formerly worked at Jefferson High School, John Jay High School, Vale Middle School, Jordan Middle School and Clark High School in the capacity of a Science Teacher, Soccer Coach, Tennis Coach, Cross Country Coach, and Administrator. Ms. Farias-Vasquez is proud to serve the Straus community.

  • Portrait of Assistant Principal, Jose Gonzalez
    Jose Gonzalez
    Assistant Principal

    Mr. Gonzalez is a proud Northside ISD product, having attended Knowlton Elementary and Zachry Middle School before graduating from Business Careers High School at Holmes High School. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of the Incarnate Word and his Masterโ€™s degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University. Mr. Gonzalez values collaboration as a key driver of academic achievement and strives to foster a strong, inclusive school community. He is both proud and excited to serve the Straus community.

    Previously, Mr. Gonzalez served as an Academic Dean, Assistant Principal, Instructional Coach, and Educator in both Northside ISD and San Antonio ISD.

  • Jennifer Myers
    Jennifer Myers
    Academic Dean

    This year marks my 20th year as a devoted educator in Northside, and I currently serve as the Academic Dean of Straus Middle School. Being born and raised in San Antonio, I am proud to be a product of NISD schools. I hold Bachelor degrees in Interdisciplinary Studies and History, as well as a Master's of Education degree and Principalโ€™s Certification from the University of Texas at San Antonio. (Go Roadrunners!)

    My journey began as a Special Education Middle School Teacher, followed by roles as Special Education Campus Coordinator and Area Coordinator. Now, I am entering my 11th year as an Academic Dean.

    My passion lies in fostering a culture of excellence and transforming the learning experience so ALL students learn, grow, are challenged, take healthy risks, care for others, and believe in their capacity to excel academically, socially, and emotionally. I look forward to continuing to be a part of the Straus school and community and working with our families to best support our students throughout this school year.