Adriana S. Galindo

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: ELAR

Hometown: Presidio, Texas

Degrees/University: Bachelor of Arts and Sciences: Sul Ross State University

Teaching Experience

I will be starting my 11th year in education.

Why did you become a teacher?

Becoming a teacher is an excellent way to get to know your community and to give back.  It gives the opportunity to serve children and parents alike.  Teachers can influence the youngest of hearts and create the most beautiful experiences for students in their education and growth.

Hobbies/Interest

My favorite hobby is traveling. I love to view nature in its purest form, and love to interact with other cultures.  I love creating memories and I love understanding the world in a larger context.  Traveling is relaxing and refreshing.

Adriel Medina

School/Department: Middle School

Subject/Position: Eighth grade Science

Hometown: Edinburg

Degrees/University: Biology from UTRGV

Teaching Experience

Experience as a student teacher for a semester at Economedes High School.

Why did you become a teacher?

I wanted to help students to understand the subject matter that I am passionate about. I would like to help students to become passionate about science and hopefully inspire them to pick something in that field as a career.

Hobbies/Interest

I like movies, games (both board games and video games), reading, hiking, and camping.

Alejandro Herrera

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: Social Studies

Hometown: Pharr, Texas

Degrees/University: B.A. in History, University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley

Teaching Experience

One year at McAllen ISD, Lamar Academy.

Why did you become a teacher?

I decided to become a teacher because I believe that education is a way to understand our world. History is a discipline that allows people to look back and discover their future and understand themselves. We not only study ideas or concepts when studying social studies, we study people and humans. It is important to keep this in mind when approaching any social studies because this will allow students to earn skills needed later in life. It is a mission to guide future citizens, and these skills will guide them in making good decisions. It is important to remember that education is not only a key to a better job, but learning something (whatever that is) is a process that satisfies the natural sense of wonder in people that is present since childhood and lasts through life. I like being the person who guides others in that process.

Hobbies/Interest

I like to write fiction and reading. Additionally, I am learning Latin, and completing a master’s degree in English.

Amanda Gonzales

School/Department: Apache Elementary

Subject/Position: Kindergarten

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: UTPB

Teaching Experience

I completed my student teaching here at FSISD at Apache Elementary. I am a first year teacher.

Why did you become a teacher?

My childhood dream has always been to be a teacher. Being able to help shape young minds and make an impact in their lives is the most rewarding part of the job.

Hobbies/Interest

My most important role in life is being a mom to my children. They are my everything

Amanda Peppers

School/Department: Middle School

Subject/Position: Social Studies

Hometown: Phil Campbell, Alabama

Degrees/University: BA History & English Sul Ross State University

Teaching Experience. (Years and previous school(s) if applicable.)

One year at Marathon ISD

Why did you become a teacher?

Because I want to share my love for history.

Hobbies/Interest. (Anything you would like to share.)

I love to read, spend time with my family, and I have a mini farm.

Angelica Gomez

School/Department: Alamo Elementary

Subject/Position: Special Education

Hometown: McCamey, Texas

Degrees/University: University of Phoenix- Doctorate Educational Leadership with a specialization in Curriculum and Instruction 2/2023, master’s degree in Business Administration, bachelor’s degree in Business Management.

Teaching Experience.

This is my sixth year in education. Previous school districts were McCamey ISD and Ector County ISD.

Why did you become a teacher?

I became a teacher to inspire children to explore their talents and to encourage the benefits of becoming a lifelong learner.

Hobbies/Interest

My hobbies include research, running, and reading.

Brenda Gallegos

School/Department: Intermediate

Subject/Position: Texas History (Social Studies)

Hometown: Alpine

Degrees/University: B.A. in Spanish, MLA in Theatre, History, Communications

Teaching Experience.

One year at Marathon ISD and six years at Buena Vista ISD.

Why did you become a teacher? (Briefly explain why you chose a career in teaching.)

I became a teacher to make a difference in the educational view of my culture.

Hobbies/Interest. (Anything you would like to share.)

Quilting and Reading.

Emma Morales

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: Theater

Hometown: Uvalde

Degrees/University: Bachelor of Fine Arts Theater (Acting/Directing)

Teaching Experience. (Years and previous school(s) if applicable.)

None

Why did you become a teacher?

I have a true passion for education and believe that this is the most important time for young people to be given the tools they need to be an active member of our society.

Hobbies/Interest

I enjoy teaching music and dance lessons in my free time. I specialize in violin, voice, and ballet folklorico dance.

Gabriel Natera

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: Social Studies/Choir

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Texas Tech University

Teaching Experience

First-year teacher

Why did you become a teacher?

I chose a career in teaching to lead kids in the right direction and hopefully inspire them to further their education beyond high school.

Hobbies/Interest

I gig on the weekends playing acoustic guitar, and I enjoy bow hunting and fishing as well as other outdoor activities.

Irene Hernandez

School/Department: Intermediate School

Subject/Position: Science teacher

Hometown: Pecos

Degrees/University: University of Phoenix

Teaching Experience

This is my first year teaching.

Why did you become a teacher?

I wanted to become a teacher to work with children. I have been wanting to switch my career to education and teach the future of American children.  I strive to give them the tools to be leaders and successful in the future of what they are wanting to set their goal in life and teach them they can reach goals if they set their minds to what they want to do in life.

Hobbies/Interest

My interests are gym, writing, art, and furthering my education.

Ivan Pena

School/Department: Middle School

Subject/Position: Math

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: Business Marketing bachelor’s degree - General Master of Business Administration

Teaching Experience

First year teaching and coaching

Why did you become a teacher?

I became a teacher and Coach to be like the positive male role models I had in school when I didn’t have one at home.

Hobbies/Interest

I like to Lift weights and wood working.

Jason Payne

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: P.E.

Hometown: Pecos

Degrees/University: Sul Ross

Teaching Experience

I have been teaching and coaching for eight years. I have been at Kermit ISD for eight years as well.

Why did you become a teacher?

I wanted to get into help kids the way I was helped growing up.

Hobbies/Interest. (Anything you would like to share.)

I enjoy going to Big Bend and hiking on the various trails they have to offer.

Jeanna Martinez

School/Department: Middle School

Subject/Position: Science

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: B.A. - Biology from Schreiner University and M.A. - Multidisciplinary Science from University of the Incarnate Word

Teaching Experience

I grew up in Fort Stockton but have been in the hill country for over 20 years. After graduating from Schreiner University with my BA in Biology I moved to San Antonio where I received my master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Sciences from Incarnate Word University. I worked for Edgewood ISD, Somerset ISD, San Antonio ISD and most recently, North East ISD, where I taught high school biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science and IPC as well as eighth grade science. I have also coached high school track, cross country, volleyball and middle school basketball, tennis and volleyball. 

Why did you become a teacher?

I have always loved science and come from a very long line of educators so teaching science was a natural way for me to be able to foster a love of science in young people. I love hearing the wonder and excitement from students when they get to see science in action or when they make a new connection between something they have read or heard about to something they can actually see in the real world.

Hobbies/Interest

I have three adult children and a dog named Dusti. My oldest, Lauren, is a senior at Texas State and will graduate in May with a degree in criminal justice. My middle son, Edward, is working in San Antonio and my youngest, Michael, will be a freshman at UTPB in Odessa this fall. My dog Dusti is an Australian Cattle Dog and is extremely smart and terribly stubborn.

Lilly Gonzales

School/Department: High School/Cosmetology

Subject/Position: Cosmetology Teacher

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: Fort Stockton High School Alumni & Odessa College

Teaching Experience

I am a first-year Cosmetology Teacher and have gained my instructors license in Cosmetology Instruction from Odessa College in 2011.

Why did you become a teacher?

I have over 23 years of experience in the hair and beauty industry. I currently own The Glam Station Salon & Boutique. I am proud to say I have gained my cosmetology license going through the program at Fort Stockton High School. Hair is something I am very passionate about, and I love teaching my stylist and clients on all things hair! I am excited to be able to give knowledge to the future stylists in Fort Stockton.

Hobbies/Interest

My hobbies include hair, make up, clothes and family. I love to travel and the Dallas Cowboys.

Marcus Ely

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: English

Hometown: Seminole, Oklahoma

Degrees/University: BFA-Theatre, Sul Ross; M.A.-Theatre (in progress), Regent

Teaching Experience

Why did you become a teacher?

Fifth year teaching. Second year teaching English full-time.

Hobbies/Interest

Multi-instrumentalist, acting/directing, reading, writing, playing board games, and church activities.

Maria Rodriguez

School/Department: Middle School

Subject/Position: Seventh grade ELAR

Hometown: Kermit

Degrees/University: Bachelor’s degree, UTPB/master’s degree, WGU

Teaching Experience.

Seventeen years total teaching experience at Kermit ISD.

Why did you become a teacher?

I decided to become a teacher because I want to help children reach their full potential, academically and personally.

Hobbies/Interest

I love to read!

Martha Franks

School/Department: Intermediate

Subject/Position: Fourth grade Math

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: BBA master’s degree in education, master’s degree counseling (anticipating)

Teaching Experience

I have 24 years teaching in the teaching Profession as I worked with other districts after graduating from High School. I am certified mainstream and obtained a bilingual/ESL certification. This will be my first year teaching in my hometown of Fort Stockton.

Why did you become a teacher?

I became a teacher because there was a need for bilingual certified teachers. I took that challenge and have enjoyed being with students. However, I have also worked with mainstream students and gifted children and found this to be rewarding. I wanted to help students reach their goals in their learning experience. Now more than ever I truly enjoy working with children.

Hobbies/Interest

I still work with music, not as much as I used to, however as much as I can.  I play the guitar and sing.  I enjoy writing music, designing new crafts, and painting.

Matthew Villanueva

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: College Prep Math

Hometown: Anson

Degrees/University: B.S. Exercise Science - UTPB

Teaching Experience

2018-2020 Muleshoe High School

2020-2022 Greenwood High School

Why did you become a teacher?

I grew up with a mom who has taught for 30-plus years. Education was always very important in our household. This, along with some very influential coaches in my high school years are why I decided to become a teacher.

Hobbies/Interest

I have three young children (Kynlee,3; Kyler,1; Kameron,1) so most of my free time is spent with them doing the things they like. Other than that, I like to spend time at the golf course.

Meagan Villanueva

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: Special Education Teacher

Hometown: Lockney, Texas

Degrees/University: B.S. Exercise Science - Tarleton State University

Teaching Experience

2015-2016 Dimmitt ISD

2016-2018 Crane ISD

2018-2020 Muleshoe ISD

2020-2022 Midland Greenwood ISD

Why did you become a teacher? (Briefly explain why you chose a career in teaching.)

I became a teacher because I wanted to make a difference in students' lives.

Hobbies/Interest. (Anything you would like to share.)

Being a mom to my 3-year-old Kynlee and 1-year-old twin boys Kyler and Kameron.

Michael Welch

School/Department: Intermediate

Subject/Position: Fourth Grade Math

Hometown: Keene, Texas

Degrees/University: B.A. Psychology from University of Texas at Arlington

Teaching Experience

My first year of teaching was taught at Kopperl ISD teaching math for 5-7 grades, as well as high schoo and junior high theatre. My second year as a teacher was at Kopperl ISD once again, but I taught Algebra I and II, Pre-Calculus, and Geometry, as well as theatre. My third year as a teacher I began teaching online with Elevate K-12 teaching 7-8 grade Math.

Why did you become a teacher?

I became a teacher because I enjoy building relationships with kids and conquering hardships together as a team. Math can be a difficult subject for many, however, I enjoy facing these difficulties and seeing success with my students. In addition, I enjoy being a positive role model to the next generation. They are the future and I find it a privilege to be able to be a part of the building of character amongst my students.

Hobbies/Interest.

As hobbies and interests, I enjoy playing musical instruments and playing sports. I mostly play the guitar, piano, and violin. My favorite sport to play is basketball.

Nelda Leyva

School/Department: Apache

Subject/Position: First grade

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: Bachelor's degree in Applied Science in Child Studies from Post University

Teaching Experience

I have 25 years teaching Early Childhood at Head Start.

Why did you become a teacher?

As a young child I always wanted to be a teacher. I enjoy working with children and watching them grow and learn. 

Hobbies/Interest

My hobbies include spending lots of time with my grandchildren and traveling.

Octavio Frausto

School/Department: Middle School

Subject/Position: Special Education Teacher

Hometown: Marathon

Degrees/University: Master’s in Education Leadership and all level special education

Teaching Experience.

Twenty one years of teaching experience, Colorado City, Abell Middle School, Van Horn High School, Alpine Middle School, Underwood 4-5 campus Andrews, and Kermit Middle School.

Why did you become a teacher?

Enjoy working with kids.

Hobbies/Interest. (Anything you would like to share.)

Traveling, hunting, and fishing.

Rachel Tavarez

School/Department Middle School

Subject/Position: Math/eighth grade

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: Master’s degree/ Sul Ross State

Teaching Experience

Thirty one years teaching - Fort Stockton, Permian High School in Odessa, St. Anthony Catholic School in San Antonio.

Hobbies/Interest

Golfing, playing with my dogs

Richard Morris

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: Teacher

Hometown: Houston

Degrees/University: BA, MSE, PhD

Teaching Experience

Redland MS, Montgomery County Public Schools; UTSA, St. Mary`s, St. Joseph’s, NIH Foundation for Education & Science

Why did you become a teacher?

I became a teacher because I come from a family of teachers, folks who contributed to their community through teaching elementary school, high school, and college.

Rita Rodriguez

School/Department: Apache Elementary

Subject/Position: Fine Arts

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University:

Associates of Applied Science Childcare and Development from Midland College

Teaching Experience

I have 12 years teaching early childhood at PCCAA Head Start

Why did you become a teacher?

As a young child I knew it’s what I wanted to do. As a young adult I started by teaching Sunday School, and my love for education grew. I love working with young children and seeing the improvement from the first day to the last.

Hobbies/Interest

I love to read and spend time with my husband and our two boys. We enjoy watching movies at the theater every chance we have to get away.

Hobbies/Interest

I am a father and like spending time with my son; (2) I’ve worked as a carpenter and cabinet maker and, today, I like doing crafts with wood, such as furniture repair and refinishing.  (3) I am very interested in emergency medical response and I am a certified Emergency Medical Technician.

Sean Romaka

School/Department: Middle School

Subject/Position: Social Studies

Hometown: El Paso

Degrees/University: Elementary Education New Mexico State University

Teaching Experience

Five years

Why did you become a teacher?

It is the most rewarding experience to help a students’ future excel.

Hobbies/Interest

Love sports, basketball, and football mostly.

Staci Ely

School/Department: Middle School

Subject/Position: Eighth grade ELAR

Hometown: Emory, Texas

Degrees/University: English/History Texas A&M Commerce

Teaching Experience

I am beginning my 29th year of teaching. I have taught in Texas and Louisiana.

Why did you become a teacher?

This is always hard for me to answer. I was born to teach. It is all I have ever wanted to do. I guess you can say it was my destiny.

Hobbies/Interest

I love spending time with my husband, our six children, and four grandsons. We travel and enjoy rodeos. My family is my greatest accomplishment.

Tammy Lujan

School: Intermediate

Subject/Position: Social Studies/Teacher

Hometown: Fort Stockton

Degrees/University: Kinesiology/Sul Ross State University

Teaching Experience

First-year teacher

Why did you become a teacher? (Briefly explain why you chose a career in teaching.)

I became a teacher because I want to be a part of our youth's future.

Vanessa Loya

School/Department: High School

Subject/Position: Special Education

Hometown: El Paso

Degrees/University: Master’s in Library and Information Science, Texas Woman’s University; bachelor’s degree Creative Writing, Santa Fe University of Art and Design

Teaching Experience

Five if you count my years as a substitute teacher. I mostly did long-term jobs. But as an actual teacher, none.

Why did you become a teacher?

Both my parents are special education teachers, and I also have a brother who’s Autistic. I love to work with kids that have a special need. They are a joy to work with, and I believe they can accomplish anything with just a little help.

Hobbies/Interest

Writing-I’m an inspiring author, volleyball, watching anime, reading.

Viviana Carrera

School/Department: Intermediate

Subject/Position: Fourth grade Science

Hometown: San Antonio

Degrees/University: Psychology/Criminal Justice Our Lady of the Lake University-San Antonio

Teaching Experience

Began as a teacher’s aide in Special Education 2017 in Culberson County-Allamoore ISD. Over the next four years I have continued to work as a Special Education Aide for Utopia ISD, Throckmorton ISD, Alpine ISD, and most recently Presidio ISD.

Why did you become a teacher?

I decided to become a teacher because I want to ensure that all of my students have an equal opportunity to become something more as they progress through their academic career. For me it is important that a student knows how capable they are and I want to encourage them to continue to be productive responsible citizens who have a positive impact in our society

Hobbies/Interest

My hobbies include watching all sorts of movies, listening to various genres of music especially Japanese Pop and Rock. I like to watch Anime, Cosplay, and go to conventions when able to. I am a mom of three so most of my interest revolves around my three children and my spouse.