OUR TRAINERS
DR. ISRAEL AGUILAR
Specializing in Educational Leadership, T-TESS, T-PESS and School improvement.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in English from the University of Texas at Brownsville
Master’s Degree in English from the University of Texas at Brownsville
Doctoral Degree in Education and School Improvement from Texas State University in San Marcos
Trainings
Teacher Leadership for School Improvement
Lesson Planning and Lesson Cycle
Advancing Educational Leadership
Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System (T-TESS)
Texas Principal Evaluation and Support System (T-PESS)
SHARMI ALBRECHTSEN
Specializing in STEM technology, including Smart Buddies training.
Experience
CEO and Co-Founder of SmartGurlz Inc.
TEDx Speaker
ABC’s Shark Tank Winner
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Trainings
Bridging the diversity gap in STEM
How to engage more girls and underrepresented minorities in afterschool STEM
Smart Buddies in the Classroom
Click here to listen to Sharmi talk about STEM for girls https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkK0TlJr8Co
FRANK BLANCO
Specializing in English as a Second Language (ESL) and Teacher Coaching
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Southwestern Adventist University
Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Texas Women’s University
Teaching Certification with ESL endorsement from Texas Women’s University
Trainings
English as a Second Language Strategies for the Modern Classroom
Coaching for the Classroom Teacher
NANCY “DENISE” GRAVES-ROANE
Specializing in Academic Coaching and Leadership Development for District and Campus Personnel, including School Boards
Education
Master’s Degree in Education from the University of North Texas
Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Texas
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Trainings
Principal Leadership Coaching
Teacher Effectiveness Coaching
Curriculum Director Leadership Coaching and Auditing
Public School Board Required Training
GTO: Charter School Board Required Training
Cybersecurity Training
Year at a Glance/Strategies to Reach All Students
MELISSA LEACH
Specializing in Literacy
Education
Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University
Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Michigan State University
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Trainings and Workshops
Assessment of Guided Reading: Running Records and MSV (Meaning, Syntax and Visual)
Balanced Literacy and the Basal: Living Harmoniously
Balanced Literacy and the TEKS Resource System
Designing a Reader’s Workshop
Guided Reading: Differentiating for Readers
Lights, Camera, Action: Writer’s Workshop
Purposeful Practice: Workstations that Work
Reader’s Workshop: Reading To, With and By
Teaching 2.0: Technology Tools for the Balanced Literacy Classroom
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Click here for some quick tips from Melissa Leach https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Er2Cp-3Ogo
Click here for more from Melissa Leach https://www.youtube.com/watchv=K97emGbiMnc
DIANA LOPEZ
Specializing in Reading and Creative Writing
Education/Experience
Associate Professor of English at the University of Houston-Victoria
25 Years of Teaching Middle School and College students
Author of – “Sing with Me: The Story of Selena Quintanilla,” and “Coco” a Story about Music, Shoes and Family (Disney Film Coco).
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Trainings and Workshops
Teaching Creative Writing Workshop
Teaching Composition Workshop
Teaching Reading Workshop
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Click here to see Diana in action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veZ2-fpdTWE
AMANDA WORSHAM
Specializing in Technology in the school setting
Education and Experience
Master’s Degree in Educational Administration
Google for Education Certified Trainer
Google Certified Educator Level 1&2
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Trainings/Workshops
Community Engagement (parental navigation of district technology)
Google for Education Staff Training (Using Classroom, Chrome, Outlook and More)
How to Engage Your School Community through social media (For District staff)
DR. EDITH TREVINO
Specializing in Parental Involvement, Bilingual and ESL, Social Emotional Learning, Lesson Planning, Education Technology, and Google Classroom
Education
Doctorate Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas – Rio Grande Valley
Master’s Degree in Education from Sul Ross State University
Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education
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Trainings/Workshops
Paraprofessional support in the classroom
Bilingual ESL Sessions for teachers
ESL Toolkit/ELPS Certification Sessions
Early Childhood tools and support for teachers
Lesson Planning New Teacher Toolkit
DR. ELEAZAR RAMIREZ
Specializing in School Mental Health and Special Education, Student Behavioral Management and School Safety Concerns, Classroom Management and School Discipline Challenges, Responsiveness to Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Concerns, and Parental Engagement and Empowerment
Education
Doctorate Degree in School Psychology from Texas A&M University
Master’s Degree in School Psychology from the University of Texas-Pan American
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Texas at Austin
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Training/Workshops
School Personnel Training on various topics including bullying, behavioral interventions, establishing student-teacher relationships and working with at-risk youths
Parents and Community Members Training for empowering parents, engaging parents, addressing bullying and strengthening the father’s role in education
KATIE REYES
Specializing in implementation of successful after school programming (21st CCLC)
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from Texas A&M University – Kingsville
12 Years of Experience in 21st CCLC Texas ACE Programming as a Site Coordinator and Program Director in three different grant programs.
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Training/Workshops
Tools to Implement a New 21st CCLC ACE Program
Thinking through and Creating a Logic Model
Family Engagement: Campus, District, and Community
Program Activities and Lesson Plans
Texas 21st Data Management
Collaborating for Success
Quality Assessment Process
DR. CINDY SADLER
Specializing in Public, Private, Charter and University Leadership Development and Innovative Curriculum
Education and Experience
Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas – Pan American
Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction (focus on Instructional Technology)
Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas – Pan American
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Trainings/Workshops
Effective Leadership for Administrators
Targeted Data Analysis
Successful Customer Service
Relevant Team Building
Positive Parental Involvement
Innovative Curriculum for all Learners
Writing Activities to Enrich (for students)
DR. ROSALINDA MERCADO
Specializing in Team Building, Motivational Speaking for all ages, and Classroom Social/Emotional Learning
Education
Doctorate of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction from Texas A&M University
Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Texas A&M University
Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Abilene Christian University
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Training/Workshops
Social and Emotional Learning Skills & Behaviors
School Board Trustee Training (Team of 8)
Neuroscience of Change
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Click here to get to know Rosalinda better https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHe8_YrrEjI
DR. VITTORIO PUENTE
Specializing in Psychology and School Psychology
Education
Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from DePaul University
Master’s Degree in School Psychology from the University of Texas – Pan American
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Pre-Medical Studies from the University of Notre Dame
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Training/Workshops
Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (Overview/Tier 1)
Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (Tier 1/Tier 2)
Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (Tier 2/Tier 3)
Executive Functioning Skills for Improved Learning and Behavior
Burnout Prevention: Understanding Chronic Stress and Its Management
Click here to watch Dr. Puente in action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2amh-eKWkVU
MIKE SUDDUTH
Specializing in Career and Technology and High Demand Career Fields
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Tarleton State University
Bachelor’s Degree of Business Administration in Marketing from Stephen F. Austin State University
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Training and Workshops
High Demand Career Trainings (for Middle and High School students)
Certification Availability
DR. GREG TANG
Specializing in Mathematics
Education
Master’s Degree in Economics from Harvard
Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Harvard
Master’s Degree in Math Education from New York University
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Training and Workshops
Parent Workshops focused on effective math instruction
Author Visits to discuss his many books
Teacher Workshops for understanding of math concepts
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Click here to see Greg in action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yvzsgm4RToo
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Click here to see Greg in action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyadUwizpuE
KEITH DAVIS
Known as an International Education Motivator Specializing in Student Assembly, Staff Development and Parental Engagement
Education and Experience
University of Southern California
3 million students reached
30 years of experience
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Trainings
PUSH – Persevere Until Success Happens
TEACHER WIN - Educational Leadership
Welcome 2 the Jungle
CHAMPION – for parents
DR. GEORGE GONZALEZ
Specializing in Substance Abuse and Conflict Resolution
Education
Doctoral Degree in Psychology from Alpine University in Switzerland
Master’s Degree in Theology from St. Meinrad School of Theology
Master’s Degree in Counseling from Liberty University
Master’s Degree in Music from St. Ambrose College
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Trainings
Alcohol is Addiction
Conflict and Resolution in the Workplace
Substance Abuse (Drug Abuse) as Addictions
Managing People Working as People, Individuals and Groups
Dealing with Stress Management
Coping with Stress During Infectious Disease Breakouts (COVID-19)
Death and Grief
History – Music Appreciation
EFRAIN "HAPPY' GUERRERO
Specializing in Motivational Speeches
Experience
Honorary Doctorate Degree in Philosophy
State of Texas Entertainment Legend award
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Trainings and Speeches
How Happy are You?
Your Role as an Educator and Mentor
Attaining Your Goals with the Power of Self-Discipline
The Power of One
Plan for the Future with a Little Desire
The Importance of Succeeding in Science and Math
You Know What You Need to Know: How to Prepare Mentally and Physically for Success
I Love Me? Say NO to Drugs, Violence and Bullying
Adding Up Your Personal Assets: Say No to Drugs and Violence
Reduce Bullying and Violence in Schools
Ethics in Communication and Technology in the New Millennium
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Watch Happy in action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tn3lW9ZQdrg
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JONATHAN MEDINA
Specializing in Youth Motivation
Education/Experience
Georgetown University Alumnus
Has worked with Harvard University, Texas A&M, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Several certifications, including Welcome 2 the Jungle Educator, GAMETIME Leadership Success and Gamechanger Parental Engagement.
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Presentations and Speeches
Social Emotional Leadership
STAAR Motivation and Mastery
Welcome 2 the Jungle
Parent POWER
Kindness Campus – Bullying Prevention
Pancake Drugs – Red Ribbon and Drug Prevention
GAMETIME Student Leadership
Financial Literacy Playbook
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Watch Jonathan in action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlVIgFoS-QM&t=9s
Watch Jonathan in action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seFev64pjqU
OSCAR MUNOZ
Specializing in Motivational Speaking, Entertainment and Magic
Education and Experience
Doctorate of Magic from the 4F Fraternity in Batavia, New York
Frequent Performer at the Magic Castle in Hollywood and The Magic Circle in London
Headliner at the House of Cards in Nashville
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Motivational Speeches and Entertainment
Learning the Power Within
The Magic of Reading Everyday (MORE)
I can be a STAAR
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Watch Oscar in action https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wb6u0FOS_68
Watch Oscar in action at school https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfUVhJBAJ2Q
GERMARD REED
An athletic leadership expert specializing in Student Assembly, Staff Development and Athletic Leadership
Education and Experience
University of Texas El Paso (UTEP)
1 million students/adults reached
Award winning athletic leadership, character and SEL Curriculum
Trainings (small header)
HOLD ON – School Success Assemblies
CHAMP – Educational Leadership
Welcome 2 the Jungle
10X Athletics – SEL and Character Curriculum
MAGGIE RODRIGUEZ
Specializing in Zoom and Excel
Experience
Assists clients with implementation of their grant programs and uses various forms of communication, to include Zoom and other technologies.
Training Services
Trainings (small header)
Setting Up Zoom Meetings
Using Zoom Filters
Using Zoom Breakout Rooms
Using Zoom Backgrounds
Initiating and Using Zoom’s other features
HECTOR ZUNIGA
Specializing as a Flight and Drone Instructor
Education and Background
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certified Advanced and Instrument Ground Instructor
More than 35 years of aviation experience
Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Texas
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Training Services
Unmanned Aircraft System Introduction
Drone Pilot Training Camp
Drone Pilot Certification Class
Introduction to Aeronautics
Private Pilot Certification and Written Test Preparation
Instrument Pilot Certification
Commercial Pilot Certification
Multi-Engine Commercial Add On
Various Flight Instructor Certifications
CYNTHIA DURAN
Education/Experience
Master’s Degree in Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Art
16 Years Art Teaching Experience in Weslaco ISD
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Training and Workshops
Painting Workshops
DIY Floral Design
Arts & Crafts DIY Workshops
Visual Arts Art Lessons
DIY Gardening Projects
KONA ICE OF BROWNSVILLE
Specializing in Visual Arts and Arts and Crafts Workshops
Current customers include: City of Brownsville, Exceptional Emergency Center – Brownsville, the Broken Sprocket, and Olmito Elementary School.
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With fruit being the first ingredient in the flavors (Blue Raspberry, Tiger’s Blood, Groovy Grape, Island Rush, Lucky Lime, Monster Mango, Ninja Cherry, Pina Colada, Strawberry Treasure and Watermelon Wave) Kona is Smart Snack compliant according to the USDA’s “All Foods Sold in School” Standards.
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The flavors are free of gluten, fat, nuts, dairy, cholesterol and soy. There is no high fructose corn syrup, lactose or sugar.
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This service can be available from 30 minutes to 4 hours.
KONA ICE OF HARLINGEN
Specializing in Visual Arts and Arts and Crafts Workshops
Current customers include: Bowie Elementary School, Lamar Elementary Dual Language Academy, Lyford Elementary School, Means Elementary School, Rodriguez Elementary School, Stuart Place Elementary School, Gutierrez Middle School of Arts and Sciences, Vernon Middle School World Languages Academy, Fox Company Marine Military Academy, and Cano Freshman Academy.​
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With fruit being the first ingredient in the flavors (Blue Raspberry, Tiger’s Blood, Groovy Grape, Island Rush, Lucky Lime, Monster Mango, Ninja Cherry, Pina Colada, Strawberry Treasure and Watermelon Wave) Kona is Smart Snack compliant according to the USDA’s “All Foods Sold in School” Standards.
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The flavors are free of gluten, fat, nuts, dairy, cholesterol and soy. There is no high fructose corn syrup, lactose or sugar.
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This service can be available from 30 minutes to 4 hours.
KONA ICE OF MCALLEN
Specializing in Visual Arts and Arts and Crafts Workshops
Current customers include: IDEA Brownsville, IDEA Robindale, IDEA Frontier, IDEA Riverside, IDEA McAllen, IDEA Donna, IDEA Pharr, IDEA Tres Lagos, IDEA Rio Grande City, McAllen ISD, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD, and Brownsville ISD.​
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With fruit being the first ingredient in the flavors (Blue Raspberry, Tiger’s Blood, Groovy Grape, Island Rush, Lucky Lime, Monster Mango, Ninja Cherry, Pina Colada, Strawberry Treasure and Watermelon Wave) Kona is Smart Snack compliant according to the USDA’s “All Foods Sold in School” Standards.
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The flavors are free of gluten, fat, nuts, dairy, cholesterol and soy. There is no high fructose corn syrup, lactose or sugar.
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This service can be available from 30 minutes to 4 hours.
CHRISTINA RODRIGUEZ
Specializing in Interior Design
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s Degree in Music (Minor in Art) from Sam Houston State University
Owner of Diva by Design, an interior decorating company
Certified Childcare Facility Director
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Training/Workshops
Classroom Setup for Preschools
The Wellness Aspect of Design
FELICIA CASAS
Experience
Nationally Certified Patient Care Technician
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Trainings and Speeches
Friends Do Not Let Friends Fight Cancer Alone
Kids Get Cancer Too!
Childhood Cancer Awareness