Tommi Binns

This is my second year supporting PSJA ISD! Before this role, I spent 7 years as an elementary teacher and then as an instructional coach. I'm here to help you get the most out of My Math Academy, My Reading Academy, and My Reading Academy Español in a way that's practical and meaningful for your students.

Amy DeLair

Amy DeLair is an experienced elementary educator with over a decade of experience in public schools. She is passionate about social emotional learning, student voice and choice, and finding effective ways to integrate technology into the classroom and larger school community. In 2022, she became a member of the Canva Education team and enjoys dedicating her free time to perfecting her sunset photography skills in her adopted home of San Diego, CA. 

Marco Torres

I have 11 years of experience in education and a strong background in social studies across multiple content areas. As a Social Studies Specialist and TCMPC Specialist at Region One Education Service Center, I support teachers through professional development, curriculum resources, and standards-based instructional planning. I am passionate about helping educators create engaging learning experiences that make rigorous content accessible and meaningful for students.

Farmer Faubs

Alyssa Faubion, known as Farmer Faubs, is the Community Lead at Knowt. She inspires teachers and students to embrace innovation and discover their “Yeehaw Moments,” those transformative sparks of excitement and achievement through AI and creativity. After 14 years in the classroom, Faubs now showcases how EdTech can spark creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and elevate student voice. She shares engaging and practical ways to use technology that feel doable and energizing for educators. And yes, she often brings along her farm animals to make the learning experience even more unforgettable! 

Fely Garcia Lopez

Fely García López is a Senior Educational Strategist at SchoolAI and a higher education instructor at UTRGV who is deeply committed to supporting educators in creating inclusive, student-centered learning experiences. She partners with teachers to design instruction that honors students’ linguistic and cultural assets while building confidence, voice, and academic success. With expertise in CBLI, TEKS and ELPS/TELPAS alignment, and the use of AI to support language development in emergent bilingual learners, Fely helps educators create meaningful opportunities for all students to think, communicate, and thrive. Her work focuses on practical strategies that strengthen differentiation, engagement, and college and career readiness. As an Ed.D. candidate, Fely delivers professional learning that is relevant, culturally sustaining, and grounded in real classroom practice. She supports educators in using AI as a thoughtful partner to expand access, elevate student voice, and prepare learners for a rapidly evolving future. 

Nicole Caceres

I bring 17 years of experience in education, beginning as a classroom teacher serving students from Pre Kindergarten through fourth grade. During this time, I developed strong expertise in early literacy, language development, and foundational skill building, with a clear understanding of the critical role the early years play in long term academic success. My classroom practice centered on creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environments where students were supported through differentiated instruction, targeted small group teaching, and intentional scaffolding. I consistently used student data to inform planning, monitor progress, and adjust instruction to meet the diverse academic and developmental needs of my learners. I serve as an Early Childhood Specialist, where I support early learning systems and high quality instructional practices. In this role, I act as a product advisor for K to 5 RLA and provide guidance on TCMC Pre Kindergarten curriculum implementation, helping ensure instruction is both effective and developmentally appropriate for young learners.

Amber Stewart

is a former educator and current Senior Community Manager at MagicSchool with over 17 years of experience in education and educational technology. Her background includes serving as a classroom teacher, STEM coding instructor, instructional coach, dean of students, and community leader in K-8 education. After seven years as an elementary teacher and instructional coach, she transitioned into EdTech, where she now helps educators save time and create impactful learning experiences through technology while building and supporting educator communities.

Amber's classroom experience spans Pre-K through fourth grade, with expertise in early literacy, language development, and foundational skill building. She is passionate about creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environments through differentiated instruction, targeted small-group teaching, intentional scaffolding, and data-driven decision-making to support diverse learner needs.

Currently serving as an Early Childhood Specialist and product advisor for K-5 RLA, Amber supports early learning systems, high-quality instructional practices, and TCMC Pre-K curriculum implementation to ensure instruction is effective and developmentally appropriate. This is her second year supporting PSJA ISD, where she helps educators maximize the impact of My Math Academy, My Reading Academy, and My Reading Academy Español in practical and meaningful ways for students.

Belsa Janette Rios

is an experienced education professional with 15 years as a bilingually certified 8th-12th grade Social Studies teacher at Valley View ISD in Pharr, Texas. Passionate about empowering teachers and students through innovative learning tools, she dedicated her classroom career to fostering student engagement, inspiring a love of learning, and preparing students for success.

Committed to continuous growth, Belsa earned credentials as a Google Certified Trainer, Kami Hero, and ESL Specialist while actively serving on school committees focused on improving educational outcomes. Her dedication to both professional learning and systemic improvement helped strengthen teaching and learning across her district.

Now serving as a Partnership Manager at Kami, Belsa combines her extensive classroom experience with a deep understanding of educational technology to support teachers, staff, and students. She partners with educators to enhance instruction, create engaging and inclusive learning experiences, and maximize the impact of Kami resources. Belsa believes that when used effectively, technology can unlock the potential of every learner and make a meaningful difference in student success.

Michael Ting

Michael Ting is a District Partnerships Representative with Brisk Teaching. Prior to joining Brisk in 2025, he spent 10 years at NoRedInk where he channeled his love for writing into helping districts address their Tier 1 and Tier 2 writing needs. At Brisk, he focuses on districts’ problems of practice regarding AI usage and supports the roll out of effective AI Governance strategies to ensure aligned, high-quality use of these new technologies.

Witney Noel

Whitney Noel started her career as an elementary educator and received her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, with an ELL endorsement, from the University of Washington. In her years of teaching, she taught nationally and internationally, across a variety of school settings — including in Metro Nashville Public Schools. Aside from being a classroom teacher, Whitney has experience in curriculum writing, professional development, and education-related research. Whitney is now a Manager of Curricular Solutions Architect at Brisk Teaching, partnering with districts on curriculum development and AI implementation in the classroom.

Susanna Barbosa

I work at Dr. William Long Elementary. I have been an educator for 19 years. I am the Campus Instructional Technologist and CLL.I am married and have 3 sons. They have all gone to PSJA schools. 

Jonathan Chapa 

Has 8 years of experience in PSJA Elementary Education and 6 years as a Campus Technology Integrator. With a Master’s in STEAM Education and a background in curriculum writing, he is passionate about leveraging AI to transform teaching and learning through innovative, student-centered strategies.

Linda Martinez

The librarian at PTI, CCTA, and Buell in PSJA ISD. She has been an educator for nineteen years with experience in elementary and secondary levels. Her libraries have gained state and national recognition upon winning several library grants that have upgraded her facilities and supplied more titles to her library collections. Ms. Martinez is certified in various EDTECH applications and uses her expertise to assist her students and staff.

Eduardo Guzman

I have been a part of the PSJA ISD family starting in the mid 2000's. In that time, I have had the pleasure of being an ELAR teacher and a Language Development Specialist. I hold in high regard the vision and mission of PSJA ISD, and my hope is to contribute to those statements by focusing on the biliteracy strand. Throughout the years, I have been inspired from many PSJA peers and value their expertise to ensure all PSJA ISD students receive an outstanding education. 

Denise Garcia 

With 12 years in education, I am passionate about supporting teachers, inspiring students, and strengthening science education. As a High School Science Coordinator, I value collaboration, meaningful relationships, and creating opportunities for both educators and students to grow. I believe education has the power to spark curiosity, build confidence, and open doors, and I am grateful to continue making a positive impact through leadership, learning, and service.

Crystal Escobedo

I am an elementary science lab teacher that believes the best learning happens when students are curious, engaged, and having fun. I enjoy exploring new ways to use technology to bring science lessons to life and I love sharing those ideas with fellow educators. Outside the classroom, I love to watch movies, draw, ride my bike whenever I can, or caring for my classroom axolotl.

Jeanette Mijares 

Jeanette has had the opportunity to work at PSJA for the past 9 years as a teacher, CIT and IB Coach. She truly enjoys collaborating and providing professional development opportunities to teachers willing to learn new skills. "Technology has become a big part of our learning environment, let’s come together and get innovative!"

Juanita Gonzalez 

I have been a part of the PSJA family for over five years. During this time, I have taught different science courses, coached UIL Science, and contributed to curriculum development. I strive to improve my teaching each year by exploring innovative strategies to enhance student learning and support our community of educators.

Cathy Elizondo

Cathy Elizondo is a 4th grade Dual Language teacher and campus CIT at Graciela Garcia Elementary. She has five years of experience teaching 4th grade and is passionate about supporting student growth through engaging and innovative instruction. Cathy holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature with a minor in Spanish and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Blended Learning through Texas Tech University. 

Jovan Caceres

I have taught for 11 years in various districts to which I have always taught Social Studies from middle school to high school. I have been with PSJA ISD for 8 of those years located at LBJ Middle School. I have also had the privilege of coaching Basketball, Football, and Cross Country. In the past, I have practiced with graphic designing with several, personal clients as well as assisting our campus with posters, logos, and shirt concepts. I have participated in the past with Best Practices and Tech Conferences and look forward to this coming year.

Mike Evans

Mike Evans is an Economics teacher, Offensive Coordinator, and Head Powerlifting Coach at PSJA North High School in the Rio Grande Valley. He brings together education, athletics, philosophy, and artificial intelligence to develop disciplined thinkers and competitors. In the classroom and on the field, Evans emphasizes incentives, strategy, accountability, leadership, and real-world decision-making. He also presents on practical AI use in education, focusing on systems that verify student learning rather than reward simple task completion. 

Stephanie Alfaro

Hi! I'm Stephanie Alfaro, a 4th grade bilingual teacher at Farias Elementary and the Campus Instructional Technologist (CIT). I’ve been teaching for 8 years, and I absolutely love what I do. I'm passionate about helping my students grow and supporting our staff as well. One of my favorite parts of my role is showing teachers how to integrate technology into their lessons to create more engaging and effective learning experiences for our students.

Catherine Mancillas

I have dedicated 28 years to serving students and educators. As a Library Strategist for PSJA ISD, I support librarians by providing professional development, instructional resources, literacy initiatives, and innovative ideas that enhance teaching and learning. I hold a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Sam Houston State University and am committed to empowering librarians, fostering collaboration, and promoting student achievement through strong library programs. 

Eira Munoz Garza

I'm a bilingual educator with over 10 years of experience in dual language classrooms. I help develop district curriculum and love creating strategies that support Emergent Bilinguals. Currently, I’m pursuing a Master’s in Educational Leadership to further advocate for equity and student success. I enjoy sharing practical, engaging ideas that inspire both teachers and students.

Jimena Castillo

Jimena Castillo is the CLL at McKeever Elementary, with prior teaching experience in PreK-4 and 4th grade. She holds a Bachelor’s in Bilingual Education and a Master’s in Learning Technologies. A passionate advocate for classroom technology, Jimena keeps up with modern digital trends while balancing them with tangible, practical learning techniques teachers need. Beyond her professional work, she loves reading and deeply appreciates the fine arts.

Amber Ybarra

I am a special education resource teacher and campus instructional technologist at Garza-Pena Elementary. I’m dedicated to supporting both students and educators. My experience working with diverse learners shapes how I coach teachers to effectively integrate technology in the classroom. I focus on increasing accessibility, engagement, and creating meaningful learning opportunities through practical, teacher-friendly strategies.

Deena Villarreal

For over five years, I have proudly served at PSJA Early College High School as the Campus Instructional Technologist (CIT). In my role, I am dedicated to supporting both staff and students by ensuring their technology needs are met efficiently and effectively. Whether it’s troubleshooting and repairing devices, setting up new technology, or introducing innovative tools and techniques that make technology easier to use, I strive to create a seamless learning and working environment. My passion is helping others leverage technology to enhance education and productivity every day. 

Nelson Carrasquero

Nelson Carrasquero is a Mathematics educator and educational technology advocate from PSJA Southwest ECHS. He specializes in integrating innovative digital tools and AI-supported strategies to create engaging, student-centered learning environments. His work focuses on helping educators use technology effectively to improve instruction, enhance student achievement, and prepare learners for success. 

Aaron Whitelaw

Aaron Whitelaw is the Campus Instructional Technologist at PSJA Southwest Early College High School, where he has proudly served for the past 15 years. He partners with teachers and staff to integrate innovative technology solutions, provide hands-on training, and streamline instructional workflows that enhance student learning and teacher effectiveness. In addition to his work in educational technology, Aaron serves as the Head Boys Basketball Coach at PSJA Southwest High School, entering his 4th year at the helm of the program. He is passionate about developing student-athletes both on and off the court by building a culture of discipline, accountability, teamwork, and relentless effort. Aaron is committed to continuous growth, collaboration, and inspiring others to lead with purpose.

Cynthia Santa Ana

I am a mathematics education leader with more than 15 years of experience in secondary mathematics instruction, curriculum development, instructional coaching, and professional learning. My passion is helping educators strengthen mathematics instruction through high-quality curriculum, evidence-based teaching practices, and collaborative leadership that improves outcomes for students. Currently, I serve as a Middle School Math Specialist with PSJA ISD, where I support teachers across grades 6-8, Algebra I, and Geometry by developing standards-aligned instructional resources, facilitating professional development, analyzing instructional practices, and coaching teachers to enhance student learning. Throughout my career, I have also served as a middle school and high school mathematics curriculum writer, Algebra I teacher, department head, and classroom educator. In recognition of my commitment to instructional excellence and student success, I was honored as Teacher of the Year during the 2021-2022 school year.

Yasmin Olivares

Yasmin Olivares is a dedicated teacher with 21 years of experience who believes in creating a classroom environment where every child feels valued and motivated to learn.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Tec de Monterrey, a Bilingual and ESL certification by TEA, an international certification for English language teachers  from University of Cambridge, a Master’s degree in Education from Universidad de Nuevo Leon, and is a Master teacher under the TIA program.

Rachel Alvarez

With 18 years in PSJA ISD, Rachel Alvarez has served as a secondary social studies teacher, dual credit instructor, and librarian. She holds Master's degrees in History and Library Science, as well as a certificate in School Management & Leadership. Passionate about literacy and educational technology, she enjoys creating engaging learning experiences. Outside of school, she loves reading, building Lego sets, and spending time with her family and their cats. 

Marilyn Ovalle

Hello! I'm Marilyn Ovalle, and I'm entering my seventh year of teaching, all of which have been spent proudly teaching 5th grade at Aida C. Escobar Elementary. As a bilingual educator, I love creating engaging, meaningful learning experiences that make learning fun while helping students develop their second language. My goal is to create a classroom where every student feels valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed.

Maureen Ibarra

Maureen Ibarra is a Reading Coach at Graciela Garcia Elementary with 16 years of experience as a bilingual educator. She is passionate about helping students succeed while supporting teachers with effective literacy strategies. She enjoys using innovative technology to streamline her work, enhance instruction, and create meaningful learning experiences for students and teachers.

Karla Rodriguez

I am a passionate literacy advocate with 14 years of experience in education. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to serve as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and currently as an Elementary Reading Language Arts Coordinator. I am committed to empowering educators and creating meaningful literacy experiences that support student growth and achievement. My work is grounded in strengthening instructional practices while fostering a lifelong love of reading and writing. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction at Texas Tech University, with an emphasis in blended learning. I am passionate about continuing to grow as an educator and leader while making a positive and lasting impact on literacy education. 

Jessica Morre

With 15 years of experience as an educator, Jessica is dedicated to improving teaching and learning through innovative curriculum, instructional excellence, and a steadfast commitment to student success. Currently serving as the PSJA ISD science coordinator for middle schools, she collaborates with educators to strengthen science instruction while championing blended and personalized learning that empowers students to take ownership of their learning. Beyond her professional role, she is actively involved in community service and mentoring youth through Girl Scouts, supporting programs that foster STEM learning, confidence, and service. Passionate about creating opportunities for students and empowering educators, she believes every learner deserves access to high-quality instruction, meaningful experiences, and the support needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Kayla Duran

My name is Kayla Duran, and I am a proud 3rd Grade Teacher at Escobar Elementary. Along with teaching, I serve as the campus CIT Lead, Dance Sponsor, and Grade Level Department Head. I enjoy collaborating with fellow educators and exploring new ways to bring technology into the classroom. Technology has become an essential part of my teaching, helping me create interactive, engaging, and student-centered learning experiences. The topic I am presenting on is something I have successfully implemented in my own classroom, and I have seen firsthand how it can increase student engagement and support academic growth. I look forward to sharing my experiences and ideas with other educators.