Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
An Academy of Creative Education (ACE) graduate started the regular North East ISD Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, June 14. ACE principal Dr. Patrick J. Valdez introduced Diana Ayala and her family.
Diana led the meeting with the invocation and pledges to the U.S. and Texas flags.
Diana was joined by her mother who is a teacher at Stahl Elementary School.
Reagan wrestler recognized for State win
Addison Garcia placed second in the 6A State Wrestling Competition this year. Her wrestling coach Kevin Hernandez joined her as she was recognized by the Board of Trustees.
Congratulations, Addison.
Reagan track team recognized for State wins
The Board of Trustees recognized a very talented and quick group of young women for bringing home several medals home to Reagan High School. Madison McElroy, Taylen Wise, Alyssa Quinones Mixon, Hunter Simmons, Mackenzie Dagrosa and Aniya Ross were joined by their track coach Jennifer McHugh. This team set many records this year and is nationally recognized. This team finished in second place in the state.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sean Maika and Board President Shannon Grona were presented with a plaque full of medals won by NEISD athletes at the state level this year.
Congratulations to all our athletes.
Other recognitions of the evening were:
Administrative Appointments:
Joaquin Hernandez, new Principal at MacArthur High School.
Joaquin Hernandez joined the North East ISD family in 2020. Prior to being named Principal of MacArthur High School, he was principal of Wood Middle School. Mr. Hernandez received a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in 1996 from Occidental College. He earned a master’s degree in Educational Administration in 2002 from Pepperdine University. He credits his first experience during undergraduate studies as the catalyst to enter education. Friends encouraged him to participate in a mentoring program at a local elementary campus even though, at the time, he had his sights set on a career in management. The encouragement from his teacher friends became his point of reference in deciding to enter teaching. Mr. Hernandez wants the MacArthur High School students to have robust experiences focused on learning and discovering, so they feel engaged and entertained. He extends a “thank you” to the community for entrusting their children’s well-being and education with him and this District as together we prepare them for their future. Mr. Hernandez has 23 years in education.
Rocio Gutierrez-Ochoa, new Principal at Oak Grove Elementary School.
Rocio Gutierrez-Ochoa joined the North East ISD family in 2007, and prior to being named the Principal of Oak Grove Elementary School, she was an Assistant Principal at Olmos Elementary School. Ms. Gutierrez-Ochoa started kindergarten knowing little to no English and credits her dedicated and passionate elementary teachers for instilling her passion for all things literacy. She received a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies 2001 from California State University and earned a master’s degree in Education Curriculum & Instruction in 2011 from The University of Texas at Arlington. Her experience as a bilingual instructional leader helps her connect with students, families, and the community. Ms. Gutierrez-Ochoa is excited to bring her passion for education and enthusiasm for learning to the Oak Grove community and wants the community to know that collaboration and teamwork are essential in ensuring social, emotional, and academic success for all students. Ms. Gutierrez-Ochoa has 19 years in education.
Jacob Collazo, new Principal at Royal Ridge Elementary School.
Jacob Collazo joined the North East ISD family in 2008. Prior to being named the Principal of Royal Ridge Elementary School, he was an Assistant Principal at Serna Elementary School. He was called to education from a young age. While a student at Driscoll Middle School, he was rewarded for good behavior and made “teacher for the day,” and he credits that experience as the start in drawing him to the profession. Mr. Collazo received a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in 2008 from the University of the Incarnate Word and earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership in 2012 from The University of Texas at San Antonio. He believes in building high-quality professional relationships with staff and students, and his goal is to use these relationships to hold each other to a standard of excellence so that all students learn at their highest potential. He believes his principalship is one of public service and imperative to stand up and advocate for what’s best for kids, honor each other’s work, and stay united in purpose and mission as all kids deserve no less. Mr. Collazo has 13 years in education.
