MEET THE TEAM
Brenda Aldridge
Brenda Aldridge is currently the Kindergarten grade dual language teacher at ECDC. This is her fifth year as a Dual Language educator and the fourteenth year teaching in the classroom. Mrs. Aldridge is a proud Texas Longhorn! She graduated from UT Austin with a Bachelor's Degree in Anthropology. She received her teacher certification from Austin Community College. Aldridge graduated from TAMUCC in 2017 with a Master's Degree in Education, Educational Technology, and Instructional Design. She believes that technology is a significant tool needed by every elementary student.
Michelle Allen
Michelle Allen received a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with emphasis in English Language Arts from Texas A&M- Corpus Christi and is currently teaching first grade at Fred R. Sanders Elementary. A strong advocate of hands-on, inquiry-based learning, she involves her students in a variety of problem-solving and technology-infused activities . Her professional interests focus on cooperative learning, Balanced Literacy, and incorporating technology into the classroom. This will be her third time presenting at Tech2Teach and is a two-time Teacher of the Year nominee for her campus. In addition, she has served in a variety of leadership roles on her campus and is a member of CC-AFT.
Veronica Anguiano
My name is Veronica Anguiano and I graduated TAMUCC with a Bachelor's in Art and a minor in Marketing. I am currently in progress of getting my Masters in Library Science. What excites me about integrating technology is how we can continue exploring our art & creative skills with the latest technology.
Alyse Baros
"Alyse Baros is a first grade teacher at Kolda Elementary. She has been teaching for 25+ years. She graduated from Texas A&I University, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. Her philosophy of education is making the atmosphere conducive to the student's learning abilities and capabilities. She finds it extcting when these younger students are able to grasp and use technology to enhance their learinging.
Amalia Barragan
My name is Amalia Barragan. I’m a 4th grade teacher at Kolda Elementary. I currently teach Math, Science, and Social Studies. I graduated from Texas A & M Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood. I love utilizing technology in the classroom!
Virginia Becker
Ginger Becker has been teaching in CCISD for 14 years. She graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in Elementary Education. She is currently teaching first grade at Faye Febb Elementary. Ginger has passion for finding ways to keeps students motivated and engaged in learning. This year she incorporated technology into all her lessons and was amazed at how successful students were. She is excited to be presenting at Tech2Teach for her third year.
Sarah Bourgeois
My name is Sarah Bourgeois. I have been teaching math and science for 12 years. Technology in my classroom has allowed me to use and create engaging lessons that encourage accountability, growth and ownership of learning by stimulating multiple learning modalities and providing varied opportunities for mastery.
Laurel Brashears
Hi, I'm Laurel Brashears, Theatre Director at Veterans Memorial HS. I have a Bachelor of Science in Theatre Education from Emerson College in Boston, MA and a Master of Fine Arts in Drama & Theatre for Youth from the University of Texas at Austin. This will be my 20th year teaching in Corpus Christi ISD. I'm also an adjunct professor at Del Mar College and University of the Incarnate Word where I've taught Acting and courses on Arts Integration for Early Childhood Educators. I've taught Theatre/Drama at every level in the District, from kinder to high school! (I'm honored to have been named the CCISD Secondary Teacher of the Year.) I'm excited to show you some ways to integrate technology into your classroom, no matter what subject or grade level you teach! This session may be very helpful to fine arts teachers and anyone who incorporates a lot of presentations, oral reports, or public speaking in their classes.
Jessica Briones
I am so proud to be part of the Sanders family. I am a currently a first grade teacher. I have taught kindergarten, second, and third grade! I graduated from Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi in 2008. I have high expectations for ALL of my students; and believe that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible! During my off time, I love to spend time with my family and friends. I also enjoy reading a great book, writing, and family road trips to San Antonio!
Megan Butler
I have been teaching for eight years and I am currently teaching fourth grade at Sam Houston Elementary. I graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction. I am very passionate about teaching fourth grade, and I love utilizing technology in the classroom!
Christina Campos
Christina Campos, MS Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Masters of Science Educational Technology & Instructional Design West Oso Junior High, 8th Grade STEM Academy & Investigating Careers I love to embrace technology into my classroom any chance I get! Technology allows my students to go on adventures and explore the outside world without ever leaving the class. I get to help my students with social and emotional learning on a daily bases by incorporating mindfulness activities through technology.
Criselda Cardona
Criselda Cardona is a 2nd grade teacher at Kolda Elementary. She graduated from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi with a Bachelors Degree in Interdisciplinary studies. Criselda has been teaching ELAR for 7 years. She enjoys sharing her passion for reading with her students and makes it a personal goal to enhance student learning by using programs such as SMART Board, Quizziz, Kahoot, and now Canvas.
Jennifer Carter
I have been teaching with CCISD for four years with 13 years of teaching experience overall. I am a fifth grade teacher at Zachary Kolda Elementary School and I am co-presenting this year on a district level. I love utilizing technology in my class and enjoy sharing what I have learned with my students and teachers alike. If you choose to attend my session and know some great tricks also, please feel free to share! We all love to learn from each other as that is one thing that makes a fabulous district of teachers!
Corina Cedillo
I have been with CCISD since 2014. I graduated from Texas A&M Corpus Christi with a degree in Education and haven't looked back since! Currently I am the Reading Interventionist at Allen Elementary and I have enjoyed integrating technology into the classroom.
Michelle Contreras
My name is Michelle Contreras. I teach junior and senior level math at Veterans Memorial High School. I am also a UT OnRamps certified instructor. I earned my Bachelor's in Mathematics with 8-12 certification from TAMUCC in 2011. I absolutely love Canvas and all of the features it has to offer. Every time I learn something new in Canvas, I can't wait to share it with all of my teacher friends. I am excited for this opportunity to make new friends and share what I've learned with you!
Brooke Coplin
My name is Brooke Coplin. I am a Reading Interventionist at Barnes Elementary. I have been with the district for 6 years. I graduated from Texas A & M University in Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, with a focus in early childhood education and a Master of Science in Reading. I enjoy presenting and attending Tech 2 Teach. I hope everyone learns something new this year.
Amy Cornelius
Rosaalva Davila
My name is Rosaalva Davila. I am the Library Media Teacher for Grant Middle School. I have been an educator with CCISD for over 24 years and have taught Technology Applications at Grant for 19 years. I am also the Instructional Technology Chairperson at my campus. I am the sponsor of our campus Grant Live Broadcasting program which is in it's third year. What excites me the most about technology is how it empowers our students as it is evident in our Grant Live YouTube channel. I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Graphic Arts from the University of North Texas and a Master of Science Degree in Educational Technology from Texas A&M Corpus Christi. This will be my fourth year as a presenter for Tech2Teach Conference.
My name is Amy Cornelius and I am a 2nd grade math, science, and social studies teacher at Kolda Elementary. I graduated from Southwest Texas State University and have been teaching in CCISD for 9 years. At Kolda, I am involved in our Tech Troops after school group and enjoy helping their technology skills grow. I find many times, I will discover something new through the collaboration with our students. In the classroom, I strive to ignite a love for learning in my students using a variety of activities. I believe technology is an amazing and essential tool to engage all learners.
Crystal Drillen
My name is Crystal Drillen, and I graduated from TAMUCC with a Bachelors in Liberal Arts in English and a minor in Public Relations. I also graduated from University of North Texas with Master's in Library Science. I work with all grade levels in the public library and what excites me is integrating technology with our after school program and teaching others how to use our STEM technology and apple products.
Erika N. Gaytán
My name is Erika N. Gaytán, I am a third year LOTE- Spanish Teacher at Baker MS. I graduated in 2008 from University of Texas Pan American with a Bachelor’s in Communication Sciences and Disorders and a minor in Spanish. I received a Masters in Special Education in 2017 from UTRGV. I enjoy sharing my passion for the Spanish language, finding ways to implement technology in order to connect with students, and sharing ideas with colleagues.
Vanessa Gomez
My name is Vanessa Gomez, I graduated from Texas A&M University-Kingsville, I am currently a Kindergarten teacher at Club Estates ES. I get excited to integrate technology into my classroom because I am able to make lessons fun and interactive for my students!
Patricia Gonzalez
Hello I am a first grade Bilingual teacher at Sanders Elementary. I had been at Sanders for 3 years and I love it immensely. I graduated from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi with a Bachelor's Degree, and currently at the culmination of receiving my Master's of Science in Instructional Design and Educational Technology. I was selected by the University to serve as a Summer Camp Leader, teaching elementary and middle school students how to create and interact with Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, iMovie, YouTubing, and QR Codes. I am proud to represent CCISD during this summer camp. I had been a presenter with Tech2Teach for 3 years and had also presented with TAMUCC SUPCE Conference, sharing my passion for technology research. I had received numerous awards and District Recognition researching, implementing and sharing my love for engaging technology instruction that always yields and increase in student performance.
Andrea Gonzalez
Andrea Gonzalez is very excited to serve as a teacher for CCISD at Gloria Hicks E.S. She has been a teacher for Corpus Christi Independent School District for 13 years. Andrea is a graduate of Texas A&M Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Science in Education. The use of technology in the classroom is an essential part of Mrs. Gonzalez's teaching style. She is excited to learn new technology to engage ALL learners in her class. Andrea Gonzalez believes that the use of technology should be engaging and relevant in order to give her students the most benefit for their education.
Candice Hallmark
Hi Y'all!! I'm Candice Hallmark, and currently teaching 8th grade US History at Cunningham Middle School @ South Park. I graduated from the University of Houston with a B.A. in History, and Texas State University with an M.Ed in Curriculum & Instruction- Secondary and Special Education. I am the proud mom of a daughter that just graduated from college, and a 14 year old son. Along with my children, I am a proud mom of 2 furbabies I am also the student council sponsor for CMS@SP. I'm excited to share my tips on differentiation of instruction through technology utilizing my background in exceptional populations.
Christina Henderson
HI! My name is Christina Henderson and I'm currently teaching 1st grade at Kolda. I have taught for a total of 14 years in Pre-K, 1st, 3rd, and special education K-5 reading/math . I graduated from Texas and A&M Corpus Christi with a degree in early childhood EC-4th. I received my Master’s in Special Education at Walden University. I am very passionate about teaching first grade and utilizing technology in the classroom. Integration of technology in my classroom increases student engagement and classroom management along with the enjoyment of learning!
Charlotte Hillery
My name is Charlotte Hillery. I have been a teacher with CCISD for 5 years now. I graduated in the spring of 2015 from Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi with a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and I have recently graduated with my Master's Degree in Educational Administration. I began my teaching career at Kostoryz Elementary in third grade where I am still currently teaching in second grade. I have had the opportunity to utilize technology such as ipads, chromebooks, and many technology apps with my students. I have had the pleasure of co- presenting at conferences such as CAMT, CAST, and Me by the Sea, and Tech 2 Teach in the past.
Dr. Cynthia Hopkins
Dr. Cynthia Hopkins: I am a National Board Certified science teacher at Kaffie Middle School. I have spent thirteen years teaching 7th and 8th grade science. I also sponsor Kaffie robotics, Science Olympiad, Texas Alliance in Minorities in Engineering team and the school's coding club. I have a B.A. in Political Science from the American University, two Masters in M. Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction and Education Administration from Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction from Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi. I believe that my students need to be technology creators, not just consumers; therefore, I integrate technology in all aspects of my classroom. I get excited when my students become the teacher and educate me!
Sherry Jimenez
Coming from a family of educators I am no stranger to education. Nor am I a stranger to CCISD having graduated in 1989 from King HS. I received my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education degree from Southwest Texas State University, returned to Corpus Christi to begin my teaching career and have never left. I received my Master of Science Degree in Reading from TAMU-CC in 1996 and my Librarian Certificate (all online) from the University of North Texas at Denton in 2007. I have worked the last 13 years at Galvan Elementary School as a Certified Librarian. In addition to assisting the students in the library to promote reading and literacy I enjoy teaching a variety of technology skills in our computer lab.
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Tim Etzler
Emily LaFantano
My name is Emily LaFantano! I am a District Strategy Consultant at Nearpod. Prior to Nearpod I was a 5th grade teacher and an Instructional Technology Facilitator. My bachelor's degree is in Elementary Education from the University of Vermont and I am almost finished with my Instructional Technology and Design MA from the University of Central Florida! I am extremely passionate about using technology in the classroom! My favorite part is seeing students create using technology in a transformational way that could not be done without the use of technology. It's incredible to witness!
Jane Lee-Rhodes
I am a National Board Certified Teacher in Early Adolescence Science and the Kaffie Middle School Science Department Chairperson. Integrating technology in my classroom increases student engagement and helps my students learn and apply the 21st century skills they will need to be successful in the future. I teach 8th grade Science at Kaffie Middle School.
Justin Lightsey
Hello, my name is Justin Lightsey. I have been teaching with Corpus Christi ISD for 11 years. I have been teaching AP Human Geography, Economics and Government at Carroll High School for for the past 4 years. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from Texas A&M University-College Station, and a Master of Science degree in Secondary Education from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Using technology in the classroom is a great way to enrich student's knowledge and also keep them engaged, and it's also more fun for the teacher!
Diana Lopez
Hi there! My name is Diana Lopez and I am an Assistant Principal at Schanen Estates. I taught 2nd grade for 4 years and this was my first year as an AP. I have a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies EC-6 grade and a Masters in Educational Administration. I absolutely LOVE education and helping others be successful by providing tools for their educational needs. I can't wait to meet you all!
Hello, my name is Tim Etzler. I am originally from Victoria, TX where I met my wife, Susan – Director of Choirs for Kingsville ISD. We have three children, David – Agricultural Degree, Janis – PhD in Chemistry, and Liz – Vet Tech. I am finishing my 38th year in education. I have an All-Levels TEA certification in Music Education but since college I have pursued advancing my skills in technology by self-taught initiative, reading publications, working with vendors, and attending conferences. I have been employed in educational technology for the last 22 years and a Technology Director for the last 7 years. I am presently the Technology Director for Ricardo ISD. Ricardo ISD is a Google G-Suite district which I enjoy working with our staff and students to integrate technology applications and devices in the classroom environment. I have presented at TCEA Chromebook Academies and ESC2 Tech Expos.
Elizabeth Maldonado
My name is Elizabeth Maldonado. I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. I am the bilingual kindergarten teacher at T.G. Allen Elementary School. This is my 6th year teaching at T.G. Allen and my 20th year teaching. I taught 14 years in Austin, Texas. I worked in Human Resources until I took the path down the education road, following in the footsteps of my father and my mother. My passion for technology and bilingual education go hand in hand. I enjoy seeing my students' become passionate through my teaching. I am a Nearpod Certified Educator and have earned a Nearpod Distance Learning Badge. Everything about technology integration lights me up!! There is not enough time in the day to learn all this blended learning!
Alma Mangel
My name is Alma Mangel a graduate of TAMUCC. I started out teaching Pre-K and have been teaching Kindergarten for the past 4 years at Sanders Elementary. I conduct research to create engaging lessons to use during center time, using multiple resources. As a second year presenter for Tech2Teach, I am eager and excited to share with other teachers what has been successful in my classroom and what I have learned through virtual learning. I attend Tech Savvy Saturdays to expand my knowledge on new and current technology. I enjoy utilizing SmartLab, Smart Exchange, Osmos, and QR codes for various activities. I like to emphasize how technology continues to grow in our daily lives and in our schools. I have appeared in the Tech 2 Teach April Magazine displaying how technology is used in my educational setting. My goals are to inspire, motivate, and assist other educators. I am dedicated to further expanding my experiences and knowledge using technology in our educational profession.
Rachel Medrano
My name is Rachel Medrano and I just wrapped up my 12th year in education. I went to Austin College for my undergrad where I majored in Psychology and got a taste of the education career options. A few years later, I decided to get a Master of Education in Instructional Technology for Sam Houston State University. I am currently the 6th grade math teacher and robotics coach at Banquete Junior High. I also have the pleasure of being the National Junior Honor Society Sponsor. I have been in Banquete ISD for five years. I am very proud to serve as the Area Director for TCEA (Texas Computer Education Association) where I get to represent the Coastal Bend on the wonderful board of directors. TCEA helps me stay up to date about education technology and learn from education technology leaders from all over the world. Integrating technology into my classroom allows me to take their learning to the next level and the students are able to see a specific math concept in a completely different way.
Raul Morales
I graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History. During the past 6 years with CCISD, I have served as a Social Studies teacher and currently serving as Department Chair of Social Studies at Browne Middle School. I was teacher of the year from Browne in 2018-19. I have presented at Tech 2 Teach in 2016 and I believe technology integration is integral to engaging students and creating active learners who will be better prepared for the real world.
Valerie Nesmith-Arechiga
Valerie Nesmith-Arechiga is an assistant principal at Calk-Wilson Elementary. Valerie promotes an educational philosophy that embraces using data and technology to help students and staff thrive and achieve goals. She believes that students benefit from a campus culture that fosters learning, curiosity, cooperation and communication. She works to create a teaching and learning environment that builds trust, inspiration and respect. She advocates for personal development and success for all individuals who help teach a child. Valerie earned her undergraduate and graduate degree from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. She is currently completing her third year of studies in the Doctor of Education Degree (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership program at TAMU-CC.
Stacy Palacios
My name is Stacy Palacios and I am a proud graduate of Texas A&M Corpus Christi. I earned my Bachelors Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a K-6 Teaching certificate specialized for reading. I have been teaching kindergarten and 2nd grade scholars at Jones ES in CCISD for 3 years. Technology has helped me to maximize instruction and engage learners at every level and I look forward to sharing some of those insights with you.
Gilbert Porter
A graduate of W. B. Ray High School, my study of French and Spanish led to my interest in the Russian language which I studied at the University of Texas at Austin. I began teaching Spanish at Mary Carroll High School in 2001 and taught Russian for four years. In 2006 I left MCHS to teach Spanish at the Collegiate High School. I earned my National Board Certification in Spanish later that year. In 2010, I left the classroom to work for my fellow educators as a union representative with the local chapter of the American Federation of Teachers. I returned to Collegiate the fall of '12 to teach Spanish using Canvas among other tools. Now I teach at both Branch Academy and CHS and serve as the Instructional Technology Specialist for both campuses. I enjoy spending my free time with my lovely wife and four children and love to watch movies and play games with my daughter and three sons. My wife and I enjoy tasting new and different foods from around the world, especially greasy street tacos and Sunday morning carnitas!
John Prezas
My name is John Prezas and I am the proud principal of Martin MS. I received all three of my degrees from TAMUCC the last being in 2013. Technology offers our students a new way to access curriculum both at school and at home. Lets stay ahead of the trend and embrace it! Any and all ideas can be made into a reality.
Casey Pyle
I am a second year Health Science Teacher after previously spending 8 years as an athletic trainer in CCISD. I am a proud Carroll Tiger, who graduated with my Masters in Athletic Training from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center after obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology - Exercise Science from the University of Houston. I love integrating technology in the classroom! Technology is overwhelming our world and if students are not equipped with the knowledge of how to use it, they will struggle immensely in the "digital age"!
Cassie Reed
I am a second grade teacher at Kolda Elementary School. I graduated from Texas A&M University (Whoop!) with a Bachelors Degree in Communications in 2014. Soon after, I followed my passion of working with children which led me to becoming a teacher. I have since taught 1st Grade, 2nd Grade, and 3-5 Grade Technology. I am married, have a baby girl named Laurel, and one Goldendoodle named Remington. In my free time, I enjoy spending time outside with family, traveling, and doing DIY projects. I strongly believe that each and every student has the ability to learn and grow, and will do everything I can to make that happen. Integrating technology into the classroom opens up the door to a new world of interactive, engaging lessons that gets students excited to learn! I love giving my students the opportunity to explore the world around them through the use of instructional technology!
David Crabtree
Alexandra Romero
Hi! My name is Alexandra Romero and I am a first grade teacher and Robotics Club sponsor at Galvan Elementary. I received my Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi. This year at Tech 2 Teach, our session will be on getting students involved in robotics, what a robotics club is, and how to bring one to your campus. Hope to see you soon!
Joseph Rupp
Hello my name is Joe Rupp. I am a graduate from Texas A&M Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of science majoring in life sciences 8-12 and a Masters in Educational Administration. This is my first year as an Assistant Principal at Cunningham Middle School at South Park, but before that I spent 11 years teacher high school science ranging in subjects from Biology to Physics. Technology is an ever changing tool that continues to provide new possibilities within the classroom. Technology can grow quickly and sometimes that can be overwhelming, but using technology in the classroom in a way that students have never seen before makes all the time and effort spent learning a new skill worth it.
Elena Salinas
Sandy Salinas-DeLeon
I am Sandy Salinas-DeLeon, principal at Cunningham MS at South Park. I earned a BS in Education from Sul Ross State University and a MS in Ed. Admin from Texas A&M-CC. I taught for 13 years and and administrator for 17 years. I believe that we must expect from our selves what we expect from others. Teaching technology and using technology is no longer an outside the box concept. Its how our student learn an dhow our world moves forward. If you give a person a fish, you feed them for a day, if you teach them how to fish, you feed them for a lifetime.
Leslie Nicole San Miguel
Leslie Nicole San Miguel is currently a special education teacher in Corpus Christi Independent School District, where she works with students with autism in grades 3rd through 5th. She has participated in curriculum writing for special education and has been a presenter for teachers and paraprofessionals in CCISD. Nicole graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences from the University of Incarnate Word - San Antonio in 2003. Nicole strongly believes that as a teacher she is a professional learner. She strive to continue her education and learn new ways to engage her students using technology.
Valerie Sanchez
Hello! My name is Valerie Sanchez. I am 4th grade teacher at Mireles Elementary School. I have been with CCISD for 6 years. I graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi in 2014 with a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Reading. I have spent four years as the technology chairperson for my campus. I am so excited to share with you the technology I integrate into my classroom to engage my students! Technology truly enhances their learning and opens up so many new opportunities for them!
Kimberly Sanchez
My name is Kimberly Sanchez and I am the School Librarian at Adkins Middle School. I graduated in December 2007 from TAMU-CC with a degree in Bilingual Education EC-4 and taught 1st and 2nd grades for five years. I also received my Master's Degree in Library Science EC-12 at Sam Houston State University and began my librarian career in 2012. As a school librarian, my focus is not only reading but also in instructional technology. I am always willing to learn new technology skills as technology changes constantly.
My name is David Crabtree and I am the proud principal of Schanen Estates ES. This year starts my 13th year in CCISD. I have been an elementary school teacher, Technology Administrator, Assistant Principal, and now Principal. Technology has always been my natural bridge when I am working with others. I find that when given the proper tools anyone can learn and grow.
My name is Elena Salinas. I graduated from Texas A&M University of Corpus Christi with a Bachelors of science degree with an emphasis in interdisciplinary studies. I also have graduated from Texas A&M University of Corpus Christi with a masters degree in counseling. I have over seventeen years of experience as a classroom teacher. I have taught first, third, and fourth grades. I am very excited to share different forms of technology with my students. I am currently a first grade teacher at Sanders Elementary School.
Emily Schellinger
I currently teach 5th Grade Math and Science at Kolda Elementary and this will be my 5th year as a T2T presenter. I have been teaching with CCISD for 9 years and enjoy incorporating Technology into the many facets of my career. I also serve as the Instructional Technology Chair on my campus and have successfully implemented an after school Technology group known as “Tech Troops”.
Monica Simoncelli
Hello! My name is Monica Ruth Simoncelli. This is my second year at the middle school level, I had always worked at the high school level. Although I was terrified when I began middle school now I am very happy to be at Grant Middle School. I hold a Bachelor of Art in Spaniard and Latin American Literature, and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. I hold a Master of Science in Kinesiology, 18 Spanish Graduate hours, and 27 Educational Leadership Doctoral hours from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. I believe technology is a significant tool that students must learn for their future.
Lorena Soto
Hello, my name is Lorena Soto, and I am a kindergarten teacher and Robotic's Club sponsor at Galvan Elementary School. I graduated from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology in 2001. This year at Tech 2 Teach our session will be on getting students involved in robotics, what a robotics club is, and how to bring one to your campus.
Daniel Thornton
My name is Daniel Thornton. I went to Tri-County Technical College and earned an Associates in Criminal Justice. I furthered my education at Lander University where I earned a BS in History. I have been teaching at Driscoll Middle School for 4 years teaching 7th grade Texas History. I love having technology in the classroom because it allows students to tap into their creativity. Mistakes made can be easily corrected and students feel like they are part of the experience. Everything from Blended Learning to Flipped Classrooms allows our students to be more and more part of the driving force in the learning process.
Suzi Uhling
My name is Ms.Uhling and I have been teaching math for 12 years, prior to that I taught History and Science all at the middle school level. I have been a Math Specialist as well as Department Chair and Curriculum Writer for CCISD and have learned much in these roles! I have also been a presenter for various technology and content related conferences. I was also honored to be a finalist for the 2019-2020 Teacher of the Year award. I graduated from Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi with a Bachelors degree in History and a minor in Political Science. I work with a group of talented teachers and thoroughly enjoy getting to know the students and watching them succeed!
Audre Underbrink
My name is Audre Underbrink and I am a High School Technology Teacher, mother of two, Cricut-cutting, lanyard-making, Hobby-Lobby-shopping kind of person. I found my LOVE of technology ages ago, but it took going to TCEA for the first time for me to realize where I truly stood in the teaching world with technology. That was when I knew I needed to make the switch to Tech. Apps. I am certified in Technology Applications K-12, ESL, English LA 7-12, and EC-6 Generalist. I currently teach Digital Media and Principles of Art: Audio/Video Technology and Communications (AAVTC for short 'cause that is a MOUTHFUL!) at Flour Bluff ISD, from which I alum. I have been a Corpus Christi resident my whole life, and only ventured away for one semester of college in Commerce Texas before I came back home. Corpus always has been and always will be "Home" to me and I am excited to share my love of Google Technology with educators here in my own city.
Sonia Vega
Hello, I am Sonia Vega, ITA at Martin Ms. I have a Bachelors in Psychology from UT-Brownsville and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M. I have taught the for 12th year teaching, the last 5 years at Martin Middle School, and now excited to be working as an ITA. I am excited to meet you and learn together at Tech2Teach!
Joe Austin Villanueva
Hello! My name is Joe Austin Villanueva and this is my first year teaching. I graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a degree in English along with a teaching certification in English 7th-12th. When technology is integrated into lessons, students are likely to be more intrigued in the subjects they are studying. Integrating technology can also encourage individual/collaboration learning.
Krystal Watson
My name is Krystal Watson. I currently work at Collegiate High School and teach English. I have a BA and MA in English and am currently a doctoral candidate for Curriculum and Instruction at TAMUCC. Integrating technology is not an option any longer. As teachers, our number one priority is to build our students up. As is natural, students shift as generations and technology shift. We, as their teachers and their guides, must be in tune with their needs. Technology is a part of that need for ALL students.
Cynthia Winchester
Hello! My name is Cynthia Winchester and I am a proud Instructional Leader for CCISD! I have a Bachelors Degree of Mathematics and a Masters in Educational Leadership. I have taught middle school 8th grade math at Baker Middle School, Algebra 1 and Geometry at King and Veterans Memorial High School, have served as an Advanced Academic Specialist, and now serve my district as the Assistant Principal at Mireles Elementary School. Can you tell I LOVE my district and all things education! My passion for student achievement is undeniable and contagious. I am excited about bringing the simplicity of CANVAS LMS to our district campus leaders this year. Just like students do, let us dive into the wonderful world of Blended Learning and launch our campuses into the next level of student achievement together!
Xavier Barrientez
"I am Xavier Barrientez and I have been in the Video Production field since 1990. I currently serve as the Audio Video Production Teacher at Miller High School. I worked in the Production Department at KZTV from 1990 to 1992 and again, part-time from 2006 to 2008. I joined KORO part-time in 1992 as a News Photographer and became full time shortly after that. In 1996, KRIS expanded its News Department and I joined them as a News Photographer. I left 15 months later to join CIS at Miller High School where a year later, an opening became available in what was then called Media Technology. I applied and have remained at Miller since 1998. I have my AA Degree from Del Mar College in Radio and Television Production. My BA Degree in Communications is from Corpus Christi State University and my MS is in Education Administration from TAMUCC. I am certified in T&I in Career and Technical Education, Technology Applications and as Principal.