Sal Frias was never looking for recognition when he pursued a career in education over two decades ago.
He went into education because “I believe in kids. In public schools. And in the idea that one caring adult can change a life,” he said. “Everything I’ve ever tried to do has been about serving students and supporting the people who serve them every day.”
But with 19 years at Golden Valley High School, and 17 of those leading the Grizzlies as their principal, Frias made an impact on students, teachers and administrators along the way.
On Friday evening at the school’s outdoor amphitheater, local leaders, students and William S. Hart Union High School District officials gathered to name the school’s gymnasium after Frias.
But before unveiling the new sign that read “Sal Frias Gymnasium,” key speakers took the podium to boast about Frias’ impact within the Golden Valley High community that has now expanded into the Hart district. Frias was promoted to chief administrative officer for student services and learning support in 2025.
“Mr. Frias did far more than lead a campus. He helped define this school’s identity … brought a leadership style that was grounded in kindness, integrity, and an unwavering belief in students,” Hart district governing board member Cherise Moore said to the large crowd present during the ceremony. “Under his guidance, Golden Valley became a place not only of academic achievement, but of belonging, pride and purpose, and we always adhere that this is a school with the most awards of any high school in the district.”
Before Frias took on his new role at the district office, he had many conversations with district Superintendent Michael Vierra and was hesitant about leaving the Golden Valley Grizzly community, Vierra said.
“He did not want to leave,” Vierra said, but Frias moved forward with the new job because “he would have the opportunity to impact even more students at all of our schools in the valley, and also work closely with families and coach many of our newest administrators, which he does a great job of.”
As other community members shared similar remarks, Arin Spalding, a Golden Valley parent who pitched the idea to honor Frias with the dedication, called the special ceremony Frias’ “Hall of Fame induction” moment.
But unlike the world of athletics, and musicians and performers, “the world of education isn’t glamorous, and there’s no multi-million-dollar salaries, and there’s no cars and trips and yachts,” Spalding said.
“But what we do have are our own legends … Thank you for treating this school as a beloved family member. You make the world a better place by being in it,” she said speaking toward Frias.
“If you’ve ever worked alongside me, challenged me, supported me, or trusted me with your children, this honor belongs to you as much as it does me,” Frias said. “Golden Valley has always been more than a school to me. It’s a place built on relationships, pride and a shared belief in what our students are capable of becoming. I’m incredibly proud of what we built together, and even more proud of the people who helped make this campus what it is every single day.”
He added: “This gym represents so much of what makes school special. It’s a place where students learn teamwork, resilience, accountability and how to handle both success and disappointment … If my name on this building stands for anything, I hope it stands for believing in students showing up consistently and always leading with heart.”
After thanking his family for their constant support over the course of his career, he only had one more thing to say: “Go, GV!”
