MEET OUR TEXAS FELLOWS

School: McCool Academy
 District: Lubbock ISD
 Launch Year: 2020-2021
 Model: STEAM/PBL

The Commander William C. McCool Academy is Lubbock ISD’s newest magnet middle school with specialized programming that integrates science and technology, interpreted through engineering and the arts, based on mathematical elements. The McCool team is proud to have received a “B” rating in their first year of accountability in the 2021-2022 school year and are excited for what next year will bring.

School: Hall Success Academy
 District: Aldine ISD
 Launch Year: 2020-2021
 Model: Blended Learning

Hall Success Academy empowers students for success through an accelerated and innovative learning experience as they progress toward graduation and beyond.  Our team provides students in grades 8-12 with a personalized blended learning experience as they acquire skills and knowledge to maintain the pace for promotion.  Our primary focus is to assist students with recovering credit and graduating on time. 

School: PTECH Healthcare
 District: Victoria ISD
 Launch Year: 2020-2021
 Model: PTECH/Healthcare

Starting at the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year, VISD’s P-TECH EAST Healthcare and Engineering programs is committed to providing a college-going and work-based learning environment where students earn a high school diploma, industry-based certifications, and college credits.  We blend high school and college coursework, providing students the opportunity to earn an industry certification and college hours toward an associate degree or bachelor’s degree at no cost to the student or his/her family.

School: Smith STEM
 District: Victoria
 Launch Year: 21-22
 Model: STEM

Smith STEM Academy is an elementary school and offers an instructional model that fosters design-based thinking while supporting fluid, flexible, creative, and innovative problem-solving in alignment to its mission to prepare students with the necessary 21st-century skills to be successful in STEM career pathways.

School: STEM MS
 District: Victoria
 Launch Year: 21-22
 Model: STEM

STEM Middle School is a 6-8 campus with a mission to ensure that students will graduate equipped with tools to successfully continue their education in a variety of STEM field career pathways. At this campus, they focus on STEM-based teaching and learning in all areas of learning, high student expectations, and a supportive environment.

School: YWLA
 District: Aldine 
 Launch Year: 21-22
 Model: College Prep

The Young Women’s Leadership Academy (YWLA) serves girls in grades 6-12, with an emphasis on college prep, leadership, and STEM. This campus offers multiple opportunities for students to engage in year-round programs including summer learning camps, academic STEM challenges, and other STEM-based, college preparatory programs.

School: A.C. Harrison
 District: Lubbock
 Launch Year: 21-22
 Model: STEM

Anita Carmona-Harrison Elementary School is a consolidation of three Lubbock ISD campuses; Jackson (1947), Guadalupe (1922), and Wright (1961). It is a product of the 2018 bond. It was determined the campus would be an agricultural STEM school, the only elementary Ag-STEM campus in Lubbock ISD. It opened its doors for the first time in August 2021.

School: Lyles Collegiate 
Intermediate School

District: Garland ISD 
Launch Year: 2022-2023
Model: College Prep

Ansil Howard is the founding principal of Lyles Collegiate, which focuses on preparing students for rigorous courses in high school, college, and their careers. Before his work at Lyles Collegiate, Ansil was the principal at Ethridge Elementary and served as an Assistant Principal at both Lyles Middle School, Rowlett High School, and Richland Collegiate High School.  Ansil earned a Doctorate in Education Leadership from Lamar University. 

School: Coyle Technology
Center for Math & Science

District: Garland ISD
Launch Year: 2022-2023
Model: STEM

Cherelle Wilson has over 12 years of educational experience. She graduated from the University of Texas at Tyler with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in 2007 and also holds two Master of Education degrees in Educational Administration and Curriculum and Instruction. She is pursuing a Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision. Ms. Wilson has a deep love for teaching children and fostering a strong connection between the educational and social-emotional needs of each student.

School: Manor Rise Academy
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District: Manor ISD
Launch Year: 2022-2023
Model: STEM

Eddwina Flowers is the proud Founding Principal of K-8 Tech Prep, whose mission is to prepare all students in their chosen high school pathways and beyond through engaging, differentiated, collaborative, and data-driven instruction. During Eddwina’s 18 years as an educator, she has taught grades 5-8, served as assistant principal, and completed four years as a principal. Eddwina is excited to start her 5th year as head of school, serving as the founding leader of K-8 Tech Prep.

School: Impact Leadership 
Academy at Wilson

District: Aldine ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: Single Gender

Jonathan Kegler is the founding Principal of the Impact Leadership Academy at Wilson. Jonathan is a transformational leader who has led three different low-performing schools and turned each one of them around.  He is an innovative leader that created a set of No-Box-Thinking principles to empower and motivate others to reach their maximum potential.  Jonathan has been married to his high school sweetheart Tangela for 16 years, and they have a 15-year-old son named Jameson, who is one of the top-rated Point Guards in the Class of 2025.

School: Club Hill 
STEM Elementary

 District: Garland ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: STEM

Kerstin Allen has served in Garland ISD for 15 years, starting her career at Hickman Elementary, where she served students in primary and intermediate grade levels for eight years.  Kerstin served as a Title-1 Interventionist and Instructional Support Teacher at Kimberlin Academy before transitioning into school leadership. Mrs. Allen looks forward to serving the students and families as the founding Principal of the new Club Hill STEM Elementary. Kerstin earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas and her master’s degree in Educational Administration.

School: Premont
Montessori Academy

District: Premont ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: Montessori 

Kristina Lopez is the Director of the new Premont Montessori Academy in Premont, Texas. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Kristina has worked in education for over ten years as a teacher, counselor, and administrator at both elementary and secondary levels.  When Kristina is not working, she stays busy cheering on her four children with their extracurricular activities.  

School: PSJA 
Collegiate

District: PSJA ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: College Prep

Mari Saenz is the founding principal of PSJA Collegiate School of Health Professions.  Mrs. Saenz is establishing her district’s first 6th-12th grade early college campus, focused on health professions. She has 30 years of experience in education as a health careers coordinator, teacher, counselor, assistant principal, and principal. Mrs. Saenz has a bachelor’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree from The University of Texas-Pan American. 

School: Roosevelt 
Elementary School

 District: Edgewood ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: Dual Language

A strong commitment to bilingual education and community service marks Martha Esquivel’s 20-year journey in the Edgewood ISD. Now principal at Roosevelt Dual Language Academy, she leads a 50/50 dual language program for academic excellence and bilingualism. Her leadership underscores a commitment to providing students a comprehensive, bilingual education for success in a diverse world. Her journey highlights her deep ties to the Edgewood ISD community.

School: Edna Primary
School

 District: Edna ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: STEM

After graduating from Southwest Texas State University in 1998 with a bachelor’s in Exercise Sports Science, Patrick Parsons spent his first thirteen years teaching and coaching at Wharton ISD.  In 2011, Patrick completed his master’s in Educational Leadership at Lamar University.  Patrick spent the next three years in various administrative roles at Wharton ISD.  He then transitioned to administrative roles at Edna ISD, where he was appointed to design and lead Edna Primary into the future. 

School: Glen B. Couch 
Collegiate Prep

 District: Garland ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: College Prep

Sharika Fairfax has been dedicated to the field of education for 18 years. She earned a bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies and a master’s in Educational Administration. Sharika has served young learners as a teacher in special education, ELA and reading, health and PE, and as a campus instructional coach. In 2017, she transitioned into school leadership and served as an assistant principal at Lyles Middle School. Today, Sharika Fairfax is the founding principal of Glen B. Couch Collegiate Prep Elementary.

School: Handley STEM 
Elementary

 District: Garland ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: STEM

Sharonda Brown, a native of Dallas, Texas, is the proud principal of the new Handley STEM Elementary in Garland ISD. She is entering her 17th year in education. Throughout her tenure, she served as an Assistant Principal, Instructional Design Facilitator, Instructional Support Teacher, and classroom teacher. Sharonda holds a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, both from the University of North Texas.

School: Crowley 
Montessori Academy

 District: Crowley ISD
 Launch Year: 2022-2023
 Model: Montessori

Veronica Delgado has been an educator for 24 years. She believes in educating the whole child and discovering children’s talents and strengths to foster their potential. As a first-generation college graduate of immigrant parents, she understands the value an education can provide. Education, hard work, determination, and goodwill toward others are values she instilled at a young age. These same values continue to guide her today in all walks of life. Veronica has a bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and a master’s in Educational Administration.

School: Sidney H.
Poynter Elementary

 District: Crowley ISD         
 Launch Year: 2023-2024
 Model: College Prep    

Falicia Tate is the proud leader of Crowley College Prep Elementary. Mrs. Tate has a wealth of experience and an extensive college and career readiness background. She has twenty-one years in education and has experience on all K-12 levels. Mrs. Tate thoroughly understands academic readiness at the elementary, middle, and high school levels to guide students to excel in their postsecondary journey. 

School: Hoffman 
College Prep

     District: Aldine ISD         
 Launch Year: 2023-2024
 Model: College Prep

Jeana Adams-Morrison has been an educator for 23 years. She served as the principal of Reed Academy for Engineering before becoming the principal at Hoffman Middle School. Her goal as the instructional leader of Hoffman is to provide a safe and engaging learning environment for all students. Jeana earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in Educational Administration from the same university.

School: Rogers College 
Prep

 District: San Antonio 
 Launch Year: 2023-2024
 Model: College Prep  

Julie May is the Principal of Harry H. Rogers Middle School. She has been an educator since 2000 and has served as a teacher, Math specialist, assistant principal, and head of school. She brings a well-versed background in special education, mathematics, and data analysis. Julie graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio, earning a bachelor’s in education and a master’s in Educational Psychology and Special Education.

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School: Boulter MS
District: Tyler       
 Launch Year: 24-25
Model: College Prep    

Justin Simmons, a proud Tyler ISD alum, brings ten years of diverse educational experience within the district, spanning roles from teacher to principal. Beginning with a love for coaching, he evolved into an educational leader. Justin’s approach centers on servant leadership, prioritizing close connections with faculty, staff, and students. His mission is to give back to the community that shaped him from adolescence to adulthood.

School: Orr ES
District: Tyler  
Launch Year: 24-25 
Model: College Prep 

Lauren Smith, with over fourteen years in education, took the helm at A. W Orr Elementary in May 2022. She has a diverse background including roles as an English Teacher, ESL Instructional Specialist, and Academic Dean. Smith is known for her initiatives in staff recruitment and innovative programs. She holds degrees from The University of Texas at Tyler and Lamar University, and is a published author.

School: W. Hills MS
 District: Judson
  Launch Year: 24-25
 Model: College Prep  

John Griffin, a graduate of Wayland Baptist University and Texas A&M University, has 19 years of experience in public education. Now the interim principal at Woodlake Hills Middle School in Judson ISD, he previously taught at Wagner HS for six years and became an assistant principal in 2013. Dedicated to empowering students for success in high school, college, and careers, Griffin focuses on their academic, social, and emotional needs, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. He is also a retired Air Force veteran with 25 years of service.

School: Candlewood ES
 District: Judson   
Launch Year: 24-25 
Model: STEM/STEAM 

Rachelle Diaz, an educator since 1997, started in East Central ISD before joining Judson ISD in 1999. For 20 years, she taught 3rd grade and worked as an RTI Teacher. In 2019, she became Assistant Principal at Escondido ES, and in 2021, she took on the role of Principal at Candlewood ES. Now in her third year, she aims to rebrand the campus as a STEM academy, combining her love of nature and service with science, technology, engineering, and math.

School: Spring M. ES
   District: Judson        
Launch Year: 24-25
Model: TBD

Sharon Balderas boasts 25 years of educational expertise, with 21 dedicated to Judson ISD and 6 as a principal. Ms. Balderas has led in various roles, including as an Early Childhood Specialist. Her diverse background includes work at Judson High School and Judson Early College Academy. Now, as principal at Spring Meadows Elementary, she’s excited to guide a College Prep campus, creating pathways for all students to pursue higher education.

School: Davis C. Prep
District: San Antonio
Launch Year: 24-25 
Model: College Prep 

Joaquín Soliz, with 20 years in education and a recent tenure as Assistant Principal at Sam Houston High School, is devoted to fostering student potential and character growth. Holding degrees from the University of the Incarnate Word and Concordia University, his journey from teacher to administrator reflects his commitment to educational excellence. Soliz now looks forward to leading Davis College Prep Middle School, aiming to impact the Eastside community positively.

School: Moreno Montessori 
District: El Paso   
Launch Year: 24-25
 Model: Montessori 

Cecilia G. Perez, with 24 years in education, started as a Pre-Kindergarten Teacher. She later served as an Instructional Technologist, co-teacher, and earned a Master’s in Educational Administration. Cecilia worked as a Campus IT until 2011, when she became an Assistant Principal. She piloted the Blended Learning Approach at Ysleta El and in 2021, became Principal of Ysleta Elementary, also taking on the role of YISD RTI District Coordinator.

School: TBD Montessori 
District: El Paso   
Launch Year: 24-25 
Model: Montessori

Isabel Justo, an El Paso educator for 29 years, has worked at various levels and capacities, from bilingual teacher to administrator, in both EPISD and Socorro ISD. After serving as an assistant principal for five years and a principal for nine, she spent 24 years at Socorro’s Adult Education program before returning to EPISD. Inspired by Maria Montessori, Isabel now leads the development of El Paso ISD’s inaugural Montessori school model.