Tech2Teach
Alexandra Villarreal
Yeager ES
My name is Alexandra Villarreal. I graduated from Texas A&M International University – in Laredo, Texas in 2010 with a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I am bilingually certified and I am teaching 2nd grade at Yeager Elementary. I have learned to bring new, creative ways to use technology in the classroom. I want to foster excitement in using new tools in the classroom and show that it is easy to do!
Michelle Allen
Sanders ES
My name is Michelle Allen, and I currently teacher first grade. This will be my 5th time presenting at Tech2Teach. I am a two-time Teacher of the Year nominee, and have a variety of leadership roles on my campus.
Allison Leichty
Menger ES
My name is Allison Leichty! I am the ECSE teacher at Menger. I am passionate about journaling, and specifically journaling for our youngest learners! I'm excited to show you as much as I can to help you also see the same magic that journaling can be!
Amy Lavigne
District Level/Admin
I am Amy Lavigne, I am an Elementary Math Specialist for the district. I graduated from Texas Tech University with my masters in Curriculum and Instruction - STEM. Before starting this role as math specialist, I was the instructional coach at Gibson Elementary. Integrating technology in the classroom is a game changer with all of the activities you can do with the students to make the content more engaging and relatable to how students learn.
Annabel Garcia
Hamlin MS
Hello! My name is Annabel Garcia. I am an 8th grade Science Teacher at Hamlin Middle School. I graduated from TAMUCC with a Bachelor's degree in Integrative Biology and am currently completing my Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Lamar University. Using technology allows me to create lessons that empower students to learn and encourage collaboration. Creating meaningful lessons that are student led and teacher facilitated would be my ideal classroom environment.
Ashley Martinez
Mireles ES
Hello! My name is Ashley Martinez. I am an upper elementary teacher at E.E. and Jovita Mireles Elementary. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from Texas State University in 2016 and attended TAMUCC to complete my alternative certification. I am passionate about teaching students through technology to provide everyone with equitable access to information and tools, and to teach students skills they will use as they progress through their education and into the work field!
Casandra Lorentson
District Level/Admin
My name is Casandra Lorentson, new mom, writer, science nerd and goal conqueror! I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2009 and my Master of Arts in Communications in 2016, both from TAMU-CC. In a past life, I was an animal trainer but now I am a Communications Specialist in the Office of Communications. I get excited about how technology in the classroom helps make information more accessible and visually appealing.
Casey Pyle
Carroll HS
I am a 4th year Health Science Teacher and Instructional Technology Chairperson at Carroll High School. I graduated from the University of Houston (undergraduate) and Tech Tech University Health Sciences Center (graduate) before beginning my career in Athletic Training. After 10 years of clinical practice in CCISD High Schools, I made the move to teaching Health Science to mold future healthcare workers and spend more time with my family!
Cassandra Ann Rhines
Mireles ES
My name is Cassandra Rhines. I graduated from TAMUCC with a Bachelor's Degree. I teach 1st grade at Mireles Elementary School. I love seeing how my students get excited about using technology to learn. The way they take initiative of their own learning when it comes to using technology makes me excited to see what they can accomplish.
Cathy Muñiz
Evans ES
Hi, my name is Cathy Muñiz, 4th grade RLA. I am beginning my 11th year as a Mighty Mustang at George Evans Elementary. I am a 1989 graduate from Flour Bluff High School. I earned my business degree and teaching certificate from Texas College in Tyler, Texas. I have been teaching for over 20 years and have taught prek-5th grade. I get excited about integrating technology because it’s important that my students have the tools they need to succeed in a tech savvy world!
Celina Fuentes
Moody HS
iography: I grew up in Corpus Christi and graduated from Carroll High School and Texas A&M Corpus Christi. I have a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from TAMU-CC.
I am married and my husband, Gilbert, is also a teacher. I am blessed to be the mother of four children Gilbert(Jr), Elise, Elena and Diego ages 25,21,20 and 15.
Charlotte Castaneda
Mireles ES
My name is Charlotte Castaneda. I was a teacher with CCISD before transitioning to Assistant Principal at Mireles Elementary. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master's Degree in Educational Administration. I have had the pleasure of presenting at conferences such as CAMT, CAST, Me by the Sea, and Tech 2 Teach in the past. I am excited to come back to Tech2Teach in a new role and share administrator tools I use every day.
Corina Casarez
Meadowbrook ES
My name is Corina Casarez, I graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi in 2017 with a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Early Childhood-6th Grade. In addition to that, I am also Bilingual certified. I am currently a 4th grade Bilingual Teacher at Meadowbrook Elementary. This is my first year presenting at Tech2Teach and I am super excited to help others learn more about incorporating technology into their lessons.
Cynthia Hernandez
District Level/Admin
Dr. Cynthia Hernandez is the Coordinator of Elementary Curriculum & Instruction and Library Media Services. She has a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in K – 12th grade reading and an Educational Administration certification. Dr. Hernandez was a cohort member of the University of Texas Superintendency Fellowship program where she earned her Doctorate degree in Educational Administration. Technology allows us to use data to make instructional decisions.
Danielle Howell
Galvan ES
Hi, my name is Danielle Howell. I currently teach 2nd grade at Galvan Elementary.
I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education (K-8) from Western Governors University. I love using technology in my classroom and enjoy sharing tips and tricks that I've picked up along the way.
Diana Johnson
Houston ES
My name is Diana Johnson and I am a fourth grade teacher at Sam Houston Elementary. I graduated from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. I also attended Lamar University where I received my Master of Science in Educational Leadership. Teaching with technology is so enjoyable because the students are so engaged!
Diana Ybarra
Galvan ES
My name is Diana Ybarra. I am the proud Principal of Galvan Elementary. This is now my 5th year using Canvas with Galvan. I am a Graduate from Miller High School, Del Mar, and TAMC-CC. I received an AA in Liberal Arts, BA in Interdisciplinary Studies with emphasis in Early Childhood, and a MA in Administration. I was also a classroom teacher for 13 years. I enjoy using technology to make my work life easier and more efficient!
Elizabeth Carreon
Zavala ES
My name is Elizabeth Carreon. I have BAs in English and Sociology, an MA in English, an MS in Library Science, and am currently enrolled in the bilingual education doctoral program at Texas A&M University—Kingsville. In the 2022-2023 school year, I will be the 3rd grade bilingual teacher at Zavala Elementary. I enjoy integrating technology in my classroom because the opportunities to engage students in ways that lead to meaningful learning are endless.
Elizabeth Reyna
District Level/Admin
My name is Elizabeth "Elaine" Reyna. I have been teaching with CCISD for 12years. I am currently the Literacy Coach for Seconday. I graduated from Texas A & M CC with a bachelors degree in General Business and Accounting. I then received my Alternative Certification in 4-8 Generalist. I love using various tech apps in my classroom to engage my students. I also love to hear great ides from everyone else. I can't wait for T2T.
Erica Gamez
Kostoryz ES
Hello everyone! My name is Erica Gamez, and I am proud 4th grade teacher at Kostoryz Elementary. I am a graduate of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, where I received my Bachelor's degree as an EC-6 Bilingual Generalist and my Master's Degree in Educational Administration from the College of Education and Human Development. I am super excited to have the opportunity to present at T2T this year to help teachers like me have FUN with technology. #CCISDProud
Gary Leary
Coles
Gary Leary is a graduate of Texas A&M Corpus Christi where he graduated with a degree in Geology and Environmental Science and Lamar University where he got his Masters in Education. He has been teaching since 2008 and he is currently the head of the science department at Coles High School. As a teacher Gary constantly tries to incorporate technology into all of his science lessons in order to make his classroom more exciting and efficient.
Jenna Wright
District Level/Admin
I hold both a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master’s Degree in Reading from Texas A&M-CC. Currently, I am one of the RLA Elementary Specialists. I have taught Kindergarten, 4th Grade, and was a Reading Interventionist. I believe integrating technology can add more creativity to literacy and the reading/writing connection! My life is grounded in the love and support of my hardworking teacher/coach husband, as well as two busy, joyful sons.
Jennifer Juarez
Cunningham MS @ South Park
I am Jennifer Juarez and an 8th grade science teacher at Cunningham Middle School at South Park. After receiving my Bachelor's in Environmental Science at Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, I completed my Masters of Education at Lamar University. I have always had an interest in STEM and sponsor the STEM/TAME club at my campus. I love to create fun lessons with technology for my students and to help them to learn to use technology for more than just social media.
Jessica Alonso
Garcia ES
My name is Jessica Alonso. I hold a BA in General Studies: Teacher Education from Schreiner University, and a MS in Curriculum and Instruction with a Specialization in Educational Administration. I am proud to be teaching 3rd Grade at J. A. Garcia Elementary. What excites me about integrating technology into the classroom is knowing that it will improve the learning process of students and will create positive outcomes.
Kimberly Davis
District Level/Admin
My name is Dr. Kimberly Davis, SPED Coordinator for Accountability & Support Services so camp out at the administration building, downtown. I have an Ed. D. in Transformational Leadership from Concordia University – Portland, OR. What really excites me about being a part of Tech2Teach is the chance to make your life easier by sharing some ‘cheats’ to help you beat the IEP and 504 process in Frontline!
Kimberly Sperling
Kaffie MS
My name is Kimberly Sperling. I have been with CCISD since 1998 and have served in many roles at various campuses. I worked at the elementary level, the middle school level, and also at the District level as a Secondary Instructional Coach. I am currently at Kaffie MIddle School as an Assistant Principal. I received my bachelor's degree in Elementary education from the University of Texas at Austin and my master's degree from TAMUCC in Educational Leadership.
Krystal Watson
District Level/Admin
My name is Krystal Watson. I have been in education since the turn of the century (2000, not 1900). I graduated in 2002 from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi with a Bachelor’s in English and in 2012 with a Master’s in English. I enjoy sharing my passion for students, finding ways to make education relevant, and engage our students through technology. Currently, I am CCISD’s Curriculum Specialist for ELAR (9-12).
L. Nicole San Miguel,
Hicks ES
I'm L. Nicole San Miguel an Elementary teacher for students with autism grades 2nd -5th. I have been with CCISD for 20 years. I graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences from the University of Incarnate Word - San Antonio in 2003.
I strongly believes that as a teacher, I am a professional learner. I strive to continue my education and learn new ways to engage my students using technology.
Laura Perales
Oak Park ES
Hi there! My name is Laura Perales and I am the proud Principal at Oak Park Elementary School. I have served Corpus Christi ISD as an Assessment Advisor and an Instructional Coach. This will be my fourth year as a principal. I love being creative and I love technology. These two outlets make communicating with others enjoyable and fun. I can't wait to continue to learn with you!
Laura Veach
Smith ES
My name is Laura Veach. I am a WGU teacher’s college graduate and 2nd grade teacher at Smith Elementary. Can’t Hide Our Roadrunner Pride! I love what technology integration has done for student learning in my classroom. The possibilities for engagement are endless. I am looking forward to working with one of my favorite colleagues to show teachers how to create lavishing, and engaging Lumio literacy lessons!
Laurie Gomez
District Level/Admin
Hello! My name is Laurie Gomez. I earned my BA in Psychology and my MS in Elementary Education a long, long time ago! I have been with CCISD since 2002, and I am currently serving and supporting all of the middle schools as a Math Specialist. Math is no longer a paper and pencil artform, nor should we have a one size fits all approach with our instruction. I am super excited to share innovative ways to provide instruction for our different learners!
Lyndall Gathright
District Level/Admin
I am currently the Associate Director of Communications for Corpus Christi Independent School District. Previously I served as the multimedia specialist for CCISD. I have a background in education, television production and business. I earned a Bachelor's degree in Communication and a Masters degree in Occupational Training and Development from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi.
Lynne Albright
Martin MS
My name is Lynne Albright and I am a graduate of UTSA, Amberton, and Stephen F Austin programs with an MBA in Global Business and Teaching Instruction. I teach at Martin MS in the Technology and CTE programs with students in the 7th and 8th grades. I am a lifetime learner who loves to share and learn about technology and how it can give everyone access to almost anything in the world. I am the proud Grandmother of Milo age 1 1/2.
Maria Silvas
Shaw ES
Howdy! My name is Maria Silvas, I am a proud teacher at Rose Shaw Elementary School. I currently teach 5th grade. I graduated from Texas A&M University- College Station with a Bachelor of Science. Class of 2011 WHOOP!
I enjoy integrating technology in the classroom to make learning fun and engaging for all my students. I love sharing ideas and learning new things from my colleagues.
Mary Page
District Level/Admin
I earned a BA from University of North Texas and a Master's Degree in Secondary Curriculum and Instruction from TAMUCC. I began my career in education in 2007 and have taught ELAR 6-12 grades. Currently, I am the CCISD RLA Curriculum Specialist who serves our Middle Schools. I am an avid reader and love when students give me suggestions of new books to read! This school year, we will learn together, fail together, grow together and be better than ever together!
Megan Butler
Houston ES
My name is Megan Butler and I am currently a fourth grade teacher at Sam Houston Elementary. I graduated from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary and a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction. I love using technology in the classroom because it always engages the students!
Michelle Allen
Sanders ES
I currently teach 1st grade at Fred R. Sanders Elementary. This will be my 5th time presenting at Tech2Teach. I am a two-time Teacher of the Year nominee and have a variety of leadership roles on my campus.
Monica Leal
Meadowbrook ES
My name is Monica Leal. I currently teach 4th grade at Meadowbrook E.S. I have a Bachelors of Science in Biology. Integrating technology is key in 21st century blended learning. With integrating technology in the classroom, I am helping the students get ready for a technological world.
Pamela Almaguer
Schanen Estates ES
My name is Pamela Almaguer and I am a 3rd grade teacher at Schanen Estates Elementary. I graduated from Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (2017) and a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Educational Technology (2021). I enjoy integrating technology in the classroom to make learning engaging and fun for all my students.
Randy Curiel
Evans ES
My name is Randy Curiel and this is my sixth year teaching 4th grade at Evans Elementary. I had the privilege of joining the Evans team in 2015 working as in class support for the upper grade levels. I am a graduate of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi with a Bachelors of Science in CJ and obtained a teaching certificate from ACIT. I look forward to showing you technology programs to engage your students and make learning fun!
Raul Arvizu-Colchado
Yeager ES
My name is Raul Arvizu-Colchado. I received my Masters in Secondary Education from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi. I am a 2nd Grade Teacher at Yeager Elementary. Technology has always been a huge staple in our society and it continues growing and spreading throughout our daily lives. It is truly exciting to see more integration now in the field of education. There are more tools being made accessible to us that have been making our jobs easier, flexible and more engaging for our students!
Rayva Minor
Galvan ES
Hi, my name is Rayva Minor and I graduated from Texas A&M Corpus Christi with a Bachelors of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies. I currently teach 2nd grade at Galvan ES. I love learning and teaching others about the wonders of technology, especially to make lessons more engaging for my students!
Rhiannon Villanueva
Menger ES
My name is Rhiannon Villanueva and I have been teaching for 7 years, all with CCISD and all at Menger Elementary School. I graduated from the United States Coast Guard Academy and served as an officer in the CG for 6 years. I am currently a 5th grade teacher. I am excited to share what has been working in my classroom as I continue to integrate technology into my classroom.
Robin Murillo
District Level/Admin
My name is Robin Murillo and I graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in Spanish Education, PK-12. I serve as the World Languages Specialist for the Office of Curriculum & Instruction. I like using technology in the classroom because it gives us even more tools to help students learn.
Roxanne Bruce-Beltran
Carroll HS
My name is Roxanne Bruce-Beltran (BB for short). I am a proud Javelina grad of Texas A&M University Kingsville w/my Bachelors in English (Minor in Writing), as well as a Masters in English (emphasis in Education). This is my 5th year w/CCISD (10th in education) and am now teaching English to Sophomores & CPELA to Seniors @Carroll HS. I have learned many new & innovative things while working in education. I can't wait to take my fellow teachers along w/me on my Canvas expert journey!
Ruben Rocha
District Level/Admin
My name is Ruben Rocha and I'm a graduate of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Political Science and a Master of Science in Educational Administration. During the past 25 years with CCISD, I have served as a Secondary Social teacher and now presently as the Secondary Social Studies Specialist. I believe technology integration is integral to engaging students and creating active learners to better prepare them for the 21st century.
Savannah Payne
District Level/Admin
Hello, my name is Savannah Payne. I graduated from West Texas A&M University with a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics. I have taught everything from Algebra Support to College Algebra. I accepted my position as a Secondary Math Coach in February 2022. I find it crucial to integrate technology in the ever changing world of education.
Sharla Arvizo
Mireles ES
My name is Sharla Arvizo. I graduated from The University of Central Oklahoma with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. I teach 1st grade at Mireles Elementary School. I love how engaged students are when they are working with technology. It also allows for students to work at their own pace and own level.
Shelly Tucker
Veterans HS
I am Shelly Tucker, the Secondary AE Coach. I graduated from Texas State University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications . I am excited to share technology integration to support Special Education students currently being served in Adaptive Education.
Sherry Jimenez
Galvan ES
Sherry Jimenez, a 1989 King HS Honors graduate, I received my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Southwest Texas State University (1993), my Master of Science Degree in Reading from TAMU-CC (1996) and my Librarian Certificate from the University of North Texas Denton (2007) & have worked the last 15 years at Galvan Elementary School as a Certified Librarian. In addition to promoting literacy I also teach a variety of technology skills including our online databases.
Tamara Baez-Flores
Collegiate HS
My name is Tamara Baez-Flores. I teach 10th grade honor Chemistry at Collegiate High School. I am also a Nearpod certified educator. I earned my Bachelor's in General Science and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico. I love using technology in my classroom because it brings me closer to my students. Nearpod helps me transform my old presentations into interactive lessons with a high level of engagement.
Thea Cain
Carroll HS
I am Thea Cain, and I attended TAMU-CC earning a Bachelor's degree in English and Communications. I teach Junior English and Journalism at Carroll High School. I believe in developing trusting relationships with my students and engaging them in a way to make them successful. This year I have learned and used technology in a way to do just that, and I'm excited to pass on just a little of what I have learned to other educators.
Valerie Sanchez
Mireles ES
Hello! My name is Valerie Sanchez. I am the Reading Interventionist at Mireles Elementary School. I graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi in 2014 with a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Reading, and I am currently on track to graduate with a Masters in Reading by May 2023. I have spent 7 years as the technology chairperson for my campus. I am excited to share technology that I integrate into my intervention classroom!
Victoria Ybarra
District Level/Admin
Hi! My name is Victoria Ybarra, and I am a proud CCISD Elementary Math Specialist. I earned my Bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University-Kingsville, and I am currently in the process of obtaining my Masters degree in Education Administration. I believe the effective use of technology in the classroom increases student engagement, facilitates collaborative learning, creates new learning opportunities for all students, and enhances the delivery of instruction.
VIrginia Becker
Dawson ES
Hello! My name is Ginger Becker and I have been teaching in CCISD for 17 years. I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in Elementary Education. I am currently a Reading Interventionist at Dawson Elementary. I have a passion for finding ways to keep students motivated and engaged in learning. I am excited to be presenting at Tech2Teach for my fourth year.
Yvette Medina
Shaw ES
Hello! My name is Yvette Medina, I am a 4th grade teacher at Rose Shaw Elementary.
I graduated from WGU with a Bachelors degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, EC-6. I enjoy creating lessons that encourage classroom engagement and participation. I love watching my student have fun learning! I can't wait to share my ideas with you!
Yvonne Magallan
Galvan ES
Hi! My name is Yvonne Magallan. I graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education. I am currently an Instructional Coach at Galvan Elementary. I love walking into a classroom full of students engaged in their learning utilizing technology!
Maria Iyescas
District Level/Admin
My name is Maria Iyescas and I am the Mental Health Specialist at CCISD. I have my Master's in Social Work from UTA and I will be graduating with my Doctorate in Social Work this year from Tulane University. I have worked as a school social worker, a middle school teacher, and most recently as an associate professor in the BSW Social Work Program at TAMUK for 7 years. My research interests are trauma-informed care and school social work.
Doug Bull
District Level/Admin
I am excited to be able to present on two sessions that revolve around this software and its capabilities as it pertains to the different groups. The ability to improve the communication amongst each other inside the district and helping our coaches to be able to put out a more user friendly product to the community and our stakeholders is definitely something that I am looking forward to.
Presenters
Tech2Teach 2022