Federico Yanez, Assistant Principal & Athletic Director

Federico (Freddy) Yanez, long-time teacher and administrator with Gilbert Public Schools, is an alumnus of the University of Notre Dame. He holds a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and certifications in educational leadership. Mr Yanez is currently the proud assistant principal and athletic director at South Valley Junior High. With twenty years of coaching experience at all levels--youth through high school--he is grateful to serve the South Valley community every day. 

Mr Yanez has spent his entire career, nearly thirty years, with Gilbert Public Schools. He was a high school English teacher at Gilbert High and Desert Ridge High for twenty years before moving into administration, and his dedication to excellence in education has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards and accolades.

Among his honors, Mr Yanez was named a Teacher of the Year Ambassador by the Arizona Educational Foundation, showcasing his commitment to exceptional teaching practices. Additionally, he was named Teacher of the Year by the American Legion, and Administrator of the Year by the Arizona Association of Student Councils, further highlighting his exemplary contributions to the educational community.

Mr. Yanez's dedication to uplifting underserved communities has been celebrated through his receipt of the Esperanza Award from Chicanos Por La Causa, a testament to his advocacy and support for marginalized students. Furthermore, his alma mater, the University of Notre Dame, bestowed upon him the Singular Contribution to the Education of Youth Award, recognizing his outstanding commitment to shaping the future generation.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr Yanez finds fulfillment in his personal life. His wife, Amy, who also dedicated 26 years to education within Gilbert Public Schools, stands as a testament to their shared passion for enriching young minds. Together, they have raised three children, all of whom are proud graduates of Gilbert High School. 2 have degrees, one from NAU and one from ASU, and their youngest will be a senior at ASU next year. Their family's deep-rooted connection to education underscores Mr Yanez's unwavering commitment to fostering a brighter future for the next generation.