Following the 2024-25 school year, Islands Elementary Principal Sam Valles is retiring after 29 years of being a part of Gilbert Public Schools.
His tenure is defined by the strong and supportive cultures he has fostered on his campuses, built by an unwavering commitment to the students, families, and staff he has served, according to the district.
Originally from Mesa, Valles’ journey began with service in the United States Navy. Initially dreaming of coaching high school football, Valles found a passion for teaching elementary education during his student teaching…