Lebon D. James III
Principal
Gallardo community, I am excited and honored to be principal of Gallardo. Education is more than a passion, it is a lifestyle. We are able to cultivate young minds, expose them to opportunities, and see them grow. Our Cardinal Scholars are amazing. They bring a wealth of knowledge with them from their parents, families, and friends, and they incorporate that knowledge into their schooling. We have a phenomenal staff that continues to go above and beyond in supporting student learning, being available for students and parents, and adapting instruction to support the best needs of their students. I have served as an educator and educational leader at many schools, all in San Antonio. Additionally, I received my masters from Trinity University in school leadership. Prior to becoming principal, I served as the assistant principal and academic dean at Matthey. This year we work together to succeed together. We are one.
My name is Geneva Rodriguez. I have been working for Southside ISD for nineteen years. This year is my first year as the Assistant Principal for Gallardo Elementary. I actually took on the position in February of 2020, however, COVID happened. So this year I officially call it my first year of Administration. I have a Bachelor degree from the University of San Antonio and a Master's Degree from Texas A&M San Antonio University. One degree is in Interdisciplinary Studies and the other in Education Administration. I have taught 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade. I have also been a Reading Specialist and a Collaborative Learning Reader. Every position I have held has given me more pieces of the Education puzzle. I continue to learn daily and my favorite part is the students.
I am a mother of three and a grandmother of three. I have been married for 34 years and I live in the Southside community. I love to participate in school and district events. Anything that has to do with children.
My personal hobbies include taking pictures and going to the movies. I love going to the beach too, as long as my grandchildren go with me!
Hello! I have been a school counselor for a long time--almost two decades! I have worked with both elementary and secondary students across many settings. I love working with students of all ages to help them solve problems and feel good about themselves. The smiles, waves, and greetings I receive from students everyday at Gallardo warm my heart.
I am a first-generation college graduate. I majored in history and minored in journalism. I became a school counselor during an interview to teach middle school. The interviewer realized I had my master's degree in social work. She saw those counseling and people skills in me that she wanted to grow. And so here I am!
I am the Instructional Coach at Gallardo Elementary. I was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas and raised here in San Antonio from about the age of 6. I received my Bachelors from the University of Arkansas-PB in Accounting and my Masters from Grand Canyon University in Curriculum and Instruction. I am the proud mother of a 4-year-old daughter named Carrington. I joined the Southside community as an educator in 2001 and have been so lucky to have had the opportunity to work at three of our four elementary schools in the district. If you are in need of support, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. Wishing you a great 2020-2021 school year!
My name is Jeannette (Jenny) Martinez, I am originally from El Paso, TX. Ia am a graduate of UTEP and Trinity University. My qualifications include over 20 years of education experience, including both elementary and middle school, three years as a Math Coaach, three years as a master Teacher and three years as a School Administrator.
When I'm not working, my favorite thing to do is watch a great movie or enjoy time with my husband enjoying a nice dinner or spending time with our family members and two dogs.