Welcome to Channelview High School! My name is Emeterio Cruz, and it is an honor to serve as the principal of this outstanding campus. My leadership is rooted in a core belief that guides every decision I make: ALL students can learn at high levels when we create systems of support, hold high expectations, and advocate fiercely for every child regardless of their background, language, or life experience.

I am proud of my educational journey, which began at the University of Houston–Downtown, where I earned my Bachelor of Arts. I later continued my learning at the University of Houston, graduating with a Master’s Degree in Education. These experiences strengthened my commitment to public education and prepared me to lead with purpose, equity, and integrity.

Before coming to Channelview High School, I had the privilege of serving as a principal at both the elementary and middle school levels. These experiences shaped my understanding of the full PK–12 continuum and reinforced my passion for building strong academic foundations, supporting the whole child, and creating smooth transitions that help students grow into confident, capable young adults.

Originally from the beautiful country of Belize, my cultural background influences how I connect with students, families, and staff. As a bilingual educator (English/Spanish), I value inclusive communication and believe that strong relationships with families are essential for student success. My mission is to ensure that every voice in our school community is heard, respected, and valued.

At Channelview High School, we are committed to Intentionally Elevating Excellence and ensuring all Falcons thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this community and look forward to partnering with our students, families, and staff as we continue building a school where every student can achieve their fullest potential.

We Are Channelview!

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Andre Phillip earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from McNeese State University and his Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Prairie View A&M University.  He joined Channelview ISD in 2003 as a math teacher and football coach before being promoted to Assistant Principal in 2015.

 Mr. Phillip loves working at Channelview High School and always says the kids are the best part of this job. He loves to serenade the students during lunch: “Baby Shark” is a favorite. You can always find him on duty by room 101 at any part of the day.  

 Mr. Phillip enjoys spending time with family and friends, coaching his son’s little league team, watching movies, and reading.

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Ms. Holmes brings more than 20 years of educational service to her role of Associate Principal at Channelview High School.  She has served as administrator in various roles, including Junior High Principal, 6A High School Assistant Principal, Junior High Assistant Principal, Summer School Principal, and Night School Principal.

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Mr. Le Peuch is a French native who became a United States citizen in 2007. He holds a Master’s Degree in Modern History from the Sorbonne University in Paris as well as an MBA from the University of Southern Mississippi. He joined Channelview ISD in 2007 as a Social Studies teacher and also taught Foreign Language before being promoted to Assistant Principal in 2013. 

Mr. Le Peuch is a father of two, and his wife also works for the district, teaching Kindergarten at Harvey Brown Elementary. He is an avid musician, having played guitar for over three decades and performed with multiple bands, as well as an unconditional movie enthusiast. He also enjoys extensive international travels, having visited over thirty different countries, and he continues to fly out when the opportunity arises.

Mr. Le Peuch is a fervent educator who believes that a person is not defined by where they come from but by where they are going and that knowledge and hard work are the stones paving the way for that journey. Mr. Le Peuch is a Falcon all the way! 

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Ms. Grisury Candelaria holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from UTPA and earned her Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from UT Arlington. With over a decade of experience in education, she has served in diverse roles—including science teacher, teacher specialist, magnet coordinator, and assistant principal at both elementary and secondary levels.

Ms. Candelaria deeply appreciates the trust that families place in our educators and leaders every single day. She takes that responsibility seriously and considers it a privilege to support each student’s academic and personal growth.

Outside of her professional life, she delights in sushi and is passionate about reading and science. Her hobbies include indoor cycling, scenic outdoor runs, and traveling. She’s a devoted fan of the Houston Astros and Houston Rockets, and she treasures time spent with her family, friends, and Lulú.

As the administrator overseeing the ESL program, her goal is to foster awareness that our students hail from diverse cultural backgrounds—and to create meaningful, engaging experiences that support their acquisition of a second language.

Her quote of the school year- “Your talents and abilities will improve over time, but for that, you have to start.”

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Dr. Manuela Paz is a dedicated educator and campus leader with a passion for fostering growth, resilience, and opportunity in every student and staff member she serves. With a career spanning classroom teaching, school administration, and higher education, she brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to professional leadership rooted in empathy, purpose, and community.

Dr. Paz’s Hispanic heritage and upbringing have shaped her values and fueled her belief in the transformative power of education. She earned her undergraduate and master degree from Sam Houston State University and later completed her doctorate at the University of Houston, furthering her mission to inspire lifelong learning.

Beyond her professional work, Dr. Paz is also a proud adoptive mother of four, and her family life continues to enrich her perspective as an educator. She believes in building strong relationships and helping others unlock their full potential—whether in the classroom, through leadership, or within the broader community.

Dr. Paz is honored to serve and support the students, families, and staff of Channelview High School.

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