Faculty

Administration

Principal, Monica Ordaz

A smiling woman in a blazer and patterned shirt is set against a dark, textured background.

A Fort Worth native and graduate of the University of Notre Dame Mrs. Ordaz has dedicated her career to working with students from diverse backgrounds. She taught Kindergarten and First Grade at D.McRae Elementary School for seven years before becoming a literacy coach at Riverside Applied Learning Center. She received her Master's Degree in Language and Literacy from Harvard's Graduate School of Education and a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington through Fort Worth ISD's Aspiring Principals Program. She served a one year administrative residency at McClung Middle School. Mrs. Ordaz was the Assistant Principal at Meadowbrook Elementary before being named Principal of Cesar Chavez Elementary School.

Assistant Principal, Kimberly Ballard

A smiling woman with graying hair and glasses wears a pink and black striped shirt against a blue wall.

Mrs. Kimberly Ballard has over two decades of dedication to education, with 9 of those years in FWISD. She has worked across many grade levels and diverse communities, ranging from Pre-Kindergarten through University, in various roles, including first and second-grade classroom teacher, Middle School Dyslexia Interventionist, University Freshman Literacy skills adjunct professor, Instructional Coach, Reading Academy Cohort Leader, and an Assistant Principal.

She is a proud graduate of Texas Tech University and received her Master of Education in Reading at Andrews University, MI. She earned her certification as a Certified Language Practitioner and recently completed the Aspiring Principal Leadership Academy through TCU. She is thrilled to bring her skills and love of learning as an educator and leader to Cesar Chavez Elementary and work alongside the community as an educational partner.

Support Staff

Mrs. Nartz: Literacy Demonstration Coach

A smiling woman in a black blazer and white blouse stands against a plain blue background.

Holly Nartz brings 20 years of experience in education to her role as the new Literacy Demonstration Coach, supporting 4th-grade students in discovering the magic of reading and campus teachers in fine-tuning their craft. She began her career teaching Pre-K and worked her way up through Kindergarten, 2nd grade, and 3rd grade.

Throughout her career, Holly has served as a New Teacher Mentor and a District Instructional Coach, helping educators to grow and thrive across Fort Worth. A proud graduate of the University of Texas at Dallas (B.A.) and Lamar University (M.Ed.), she is deeply committed to empowering both the students and teachers at Cesar Chavez through meaningful literacy practices, collaboration, and joyful learning.

Mrs. Lupold: Counselor

Hello! My name is Ann Lupold. I am so fortunate to be your school counselor. It is my privilege to serve the students of Cesar Chavez! I believe in that our students should be supported socially and, emotionally while encouraging their academic growth. I have been in elementary education for over 25 years!. I believe my role as school counselor is to help each student reach their full potential as a student while thinking about their future. Professionally, my goal is to help students with growth mindset, social skills, and healthy interpersonal relationships while presenting them with career and college goals. I am very excited to witness our students’ blossom into citizens of their community.

Mrs. Guerrero: Counselor

A woman with long brown hair and a light purple polka-dot shirt is in the foreground, with a gray wall and white trim in the background.

This is my 8th year as an elementary school counselor and my first year at Cesar Chavez Elementary. I grew up in Arkadelphia, Arkansas as the youngest of 6 children. I earned my bachelor's degree from BYU and my master's from UTA. Outside of my work life, I love to spend time with my family, play board/card games, dance, read, and do yard work. My husband and I have 3 children and just recently added a son-in-law who fits in perfectly.

I believe that building healthy relationships is a foundational key to success. And, I am dedicated to working with students, parents, staff, and community members to see the “whole child” as we help students with their social, emotional, and academic needs.

Mrs. Freeman: Librarian

Raised as a military brat, I traveled and lived all over the world. Those experiences shaped my love of reading and books, especially when I can dress up in costume. This will be my 20th year as a librarian in FWISD. My husband and teenage daughter are never surprised by my reading initiatives. I enjoy traveling, doing mission work, cycling, running and visiting family. I am extremely excited about being at Cesar Chavez. I cannot wait to meet your student and open their hearts to the Cesar Chavez library.

Mrs. Lerma: Secretary

My name is Mary Lerma. I was born and raised in Fort Worth, TX. I have over 20 years’ experience in customer service. This will be my 6rd year at Cesar Chavez. I enjoy working with students and parents. I have been married to my husband Felipe for 18 years. We have two beautiful daughters and a handsome son who we love very much! In my spare time I enjoy cooking and sewing. I love being part of The Cesar Chavez Family.

Ms. Lennarson: Nurse

My name is Jessica Lennarson and I am so excited to join the Cesar Chavez family! I was born and raised in Fort Worth, and I am an alumnus of FWISD – I graduated from Arlington Heights High School. I received my Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Tarleton State University in 2014, and I began working with the district in 2016. Working with children is my passion; I strive to help kids learn the importance of developing healthy habits they can maintain throughout their life. I love what I do, and I couldn’t ask for a better job!

When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my friends, family, and my two toy Australian Shepherd dogs. I love to paint, read, write, and be outdoors.

Mrs. Zuniga: Clerk

A woman with dark hair and hoop earrings smiles at the camera, wearing a colorful embroidered shirt against a blurred background.

My name is Daniela Zuniga and I am the new Data Clerk at Cesar Chavez Elementary. I’m super excited to join the Cesar Chavez team. I enjoy working with parents and students. I believe that our children are the future. I enjoy watching movies with my husband and two daughters, walking, and shopping.

Pre-K

Mrs. Saucedo: PK DLE

My name is Laura Saucedo. I was born and raised in Fort Worth but live in Springtown. I'm married and have two daughters and a son: Ayden, Analia and Aileen. I have been teaching for 11 years in FWISD. I have had the privilege of teaching pre-k, kinder, first and 3rd grade. I graduated from University of Texas in Arlington with a bachelor's degree in education. I love working with children and seeing how much they learn and grow every day. On my spare time I like to watch movies with my kids.

Mi nombre es Laura Saucedo. Nací y crecí en Fort Worth pero vivo en Springtown. Estoy casada y tengo un hijo y dos hijas: Ayden, Analia y Aileen. Me gradué de la Universidad de Texas en Arlington con una licenciatura en educación de prekínder a 4to grado.Tengo 11 años de ser maestra en FWISD.He tenido el privilegio de ensenar prekínder, kínder, primer y tercer grado. Me encanta trabajar con niños y ver cuanto aprenden y crecen cada día. En mi tiempo libre me gusta ver películas con mis hijos.

Ms. Barrera: Pre-K TA

¡Hola! Yo soy Ms. Barrera.

He trabajado para el distrito de Fort Worth por 22 años y he trabajado de asistente de PK en Cesar Chávez desde que abrió. Estoy muy contenta de poder trabajar con sus hijos este año escolar.

Ms. Wentz: PK RP

My name is Christy Coggins Wentz. I am from Fort Worth and grew up in the Fort Worth ISD school system. I received my Bachelor's degree in English from North Texas State University in Denton (currently, University of North Texas.) I have been married to my husband for 31 years and we have two daughters. This is my sixth year teaching Pre-K at Cesar Chavez. In my spare time I enjoy playing tennis and cooking.

Tara Yielding: TA

Hello! My name is Tara Yielding and this is my 3nd year in FWISD as a Pre-K assistant. Prior to coming to FWISD I was the lead teacher for 2 year olds at a private preschool for 8 years. I love working with children and helping them learn and grow to their full potential. I have been married to my husband for 21 years and we have 3 daughters. In my spare time I love reading and spending time with my family

Megan Gonzales: ECSE

I am the Special Education teacher here at Cesar Chavez. This will be my twelve year helping students from different grade levels, and I enjoy working with every single one of them!! 

Ms. Cardenas: PPCD TA

Kindergarten

Four women pose in front of a balloon arch with space-themed decorations, including a rocket and astronauts, with bookshelves and a portrait of Cesar Chavez visible in the background.

Stacey Barringer: Kinder RP

I was born and raised in Western Pennsylvania. I attended Indiana University of Pennsylvania where I earned my degree in Elementary Education in 1994. I have been teaching and working in the Early Childhood field since my graduation. I am extremely excited to be joining the Cesar Chavez team and looking forward to beginning another wonderful year!

Maria Fernandez: Kinder DLE

Mrs. Fernández is a graduate of Texas Wesleyan University. She has taught 1st grade and kinder. On her spare time she likes to ride horses on her ranch and enjoy her farm animals with her family.

Areslia Espinoza: DLE

My name is Arselia Espinoza. I am a kindergarten teacher, and this year will be my 15th year as a teacher. I have a nice family with my husband, 2 children and a dog. Being a Kindergarten teacher fascinates me because this is when students learn to read and write!

Ms. Grantland: RP K/1 Bridge

A woman with auburn hair and a white top stands with her arms crossed in front of a dark, textured background.

This is Ms. Grantland's third year at Cesar Chavez and 16^th year teaching. Ms. Grantland has 4 children and 4 grandchildren and enjoys kayaking and estate sales after school. This is going to be a great year!

1st Grade

Three women smile in front of a balloon arch and a sparkly blue backdrop, holding an astronaut balloon and surrounded by space-themed decorations.

Jocelyn Loredo: RP

Hello I am Ms. Loredo!

I graduated from Texas A&M University with my Bachelors in Sociology. I have been working as a Pre-K teacher assistant at M.H.Moore for 4 years. I grew up and went to school in the Diamond Hill area and it is so exciting to give back to my community and become a mentor for my students. I love being creative and building strong connections with my students. I am eager to get to know my 1st grade students and join the Colt family!

Rosie Segura: DLE

I was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley. I moved to Fort Worth to attend TCU, and I have been here ever since. I have been teaching for over 23 years. All of these years have been in First Grade! I am excited to a part of the Cesar Chavez team! I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, playing board games and traveling.

Mrs. Argueta

A young woman with long, wavy brown hair smiles at the camera in the foreground, while a pastel purple, draped backdrop with floral accents forms the background.

My name is Alma Argueta and I am originally from Mexico City. I've been living in Fort Worth since I was 10, and I am a proud product of FWISD! I graduated from Texas Tech University in 2018 and have been teaching in the district ever since. I live with my husband and our 8 year old daughter, Ariana. In my free time I love to read, travel, play soccer and spend time with family.

2nd Grade

esenia Iglesias: 2nd DLE

My name is Yesenia Iglesias. I graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington and have been teaching for eight years. I am married and have two dogs. Their names are Lucy and Luna and a new baby. In my spare time, I like to read, do crafts, and travel.

Patricia Ramirez: DLE Math

My name is Patricia Ramirez. I graduated from Universidad Simón Bolívar. I am married and have two children. This will be my sixteenth-year teaching. Family time and traveling are the things that I enjoy the most. I am looking forward to a great year at Cesar Chavez!

A smiling graduate in a navy cap and gown, holding a diploma and a bouquet of flowers, stands in front of a tree and a building.

Hello I am Ms. Flores!

I graduated from Texas Wesleyan University and did my residency at D. McRae Elementary. This will be my second year at Cesar Chavez and I am so excited to help my students discover their potential and love for learning. Outside of school I enjoy traveling and spending time with the people I love. I am looking forward to a fantastic year of growth!

3rd Grade

Velia Varela: 3rd DLE Reading/Writing

I am a graduate of Texas Woman's University. This is my sixth year teaching here at Cesar Chavez Elementary. I help with volleyball club and Battle of the Books. I truly enjoy working here at Cesar Chavez.

Dianne Joyner: RP 3rd Math/Science

Ms. Joyner grew up in Thibodaux, Louisiana where she worked as a teacher. She recently moved to Fort Worth and is in her 12th year of teaching. When she's not teaching, she loves watching movies and spending time with her family and two cats.

Cristina Padilla: 3rd ESL Math/Science

A woman with glasses and a patterned shirt smiles in the foreground, with a bulletin board and blinds visible in the background.

My name is Ms. Padilla and I am so happy to join Cesar Chavez this year. I will be starting my 12^th year with FWISD. I graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington. I graduated from Diamond Hill High School and am glad to be working in such a great pyramid.

Mrs. Parada:

A smiling young woman in a white sweater and pink skirt stands in front of a modern building with glass doors and wooden accents.

My name is Ms. Parada. I graduated from St. Edward's University in Austin, TX this past May and student taught 3rd grade at Josephine Houston Elementary School in South Austin. I was born in Los Angeles, California but moved to North Austin when I was 7. This is also my first year in Fort Worth, so I am excited for all these new beginnings. I am thrilled to be able to teach 2nd grade this year and cannot wait to get this school year started!

4th Grade

Ms. Reyes: 4th DLE Reading/Writing

Ms. Nancy Reyes is a 4th Grade DLE teacher. She graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2017. Even though she lives in Alvarado, Texas, she truly enjoys teaching here at Cesar Chavez and enjoying her new baby.

Ms. Casas: 4th DLE Sci/Math

My name is Sendy Casas. I graduated from the University of North Texas. My passion is to help students recognize their potential. This is my 14th year teaching at Cesar Chavez Elementary. I also coach 5th grade volleyball in the spring.

Ms. Smith: 4th RP Reading

A young woman with long brown hair and a bright smile, wearing a red blazer over a white top, poses against a blue, mottled background.

I am Mrs. Smith, I have been in education for 4 years now. I was in a charter district for the past 3 years, 1 year in kindergarten, 2 years in 4^th grade. I went to Loyola Chicago for my undergraduate and got my master's at Johns Hopkin University in education.

5th Grade

Ms. Palomo: DL Reading

My name is Lezlie Palomo. I’m an alumni of Texas Wesleyan and a very proud native of Fort Worth, Tx. I truly enjoy teaching and watching my students become successful. I’m excited to be a part of this amazing 5th grade team, school, and community.

Mrs. Cervantez: DLE Math

A woman with dark hair and glasses smiles in the foreground, with a blurred background suggesting she is in a car.

My name is Casey Cervantes, and I am a 2nd year teacher at Cesar Chavez elementary. I am a proud FWISD graduate and Texas Wesleyan graduate where I obtained my bachelor's degree in education. During my free time I love spending time with my husband, daughter, and dog. We love taking walks to the park! I'm excited for this school year with your child!

¡Hola! Soy Casey Cervantes y este es mi segunda año en la primaria César Chávez. Soy una orgullosa

graduada de FWISD y graduada de Texas Wesleyan, donde obtuve mi licenciatura en educación. Durante

mi tiempo libre me encanta pasar tiempo con mi esposo, mi hija y mi perro. ¡Nos encanta dar

paseos por el parque! ¡Estoy emocionado por este año escolar con su hijo(a)!

Mrs. Martin: RP Reading

A smiling woman with blonde hair wears a blue and white striped dress in the foreground, while a baby's foot and a candle are visible in the background.

My name is Abby Martin, and this will be my sixth year as a classroom teacher, but my second year here at Cesar Chavez. I graduated from Texas A&M University with both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Education, and I just recently moved back to the Fort Worth area. When I’m not teaching, I love being active and spending time with my husband and family!

Ami Suzuki:

A woman with dark hair and glasses smiles against a plain white background.

My name is Ami Suzuki, and I am a 5^th grade teacher. I graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2021. I am from Japan and raising a bilingual daughter. I believe that school is where every child from any background can freely grow to be the best version of him or herself.

Specials

Four women stand in front of a balloon arch and a bookshelf, holding astronaut balloons.

Ms. Waller: PE

A woman stands in front of a colorful tiled wall and a building with large windows.

My name is JoAnna Waller and I am a new teacher here at Cesar Chavez. I was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley. I received my undergraduate degree from Texas Woman’s University where I studied Food and Nutrition. My hobbies include cooking, shopping, and spending time with my newborn son and husband. I am excited for this school year and ready to introduce a physical and healthy lifestyle.

Ms. Rodriguez: PE TA

A smiling woman with blonde hair and a pink shirt is in the foreground, with a blurred brown background behind her.

Hi my name is DeeDee Rodriguez, “Coach Rod”. I have been in education for 23 years. I am also an Aquatics Director and swim coach during the summer for 12 years. My husband of 31 years, David, is also a coach and teacher. We have two amazing sons, Brock 25 and Ryne 20. Brock works at Lockheed Martin and Ryne plays baseball at the University of Mississippi I am excited and thrilled to be a part of the Cesar Chavez family!

Ms. Khodayari: Art

Art has been an adventure for me as far back as I can remember. I was told by my mother that I never showed any interest playing with dolls, but instead I was drawn to any crayon, pencil, or pen and scribble. Art is the only area in my life that I can express myself without using words.
I grew up in Argentina and studied fine arts in college. After graduation, I worked as art teacher in Argentina for several years while painting and having my own studio and art shows. I pursued the same goal when I came to United States. Currently, I am an art teacher in an elementary school in Forth Worth, Texas. My art is very analytical, I have to look for every single variation colors, shapes, textures and lately glitter…oh yeah! I love glitter although not all my paintings have it.

Mrs. Higgins: Music

Ms. Higgins has been a music teacher for over twenty years, teaching middle school, high school, and elementary school.  She wants every child to be able to sing tunefully, move competently to the beat of music, and to appreciate the emotional and artistic value of music.

Special Education

A group of nine women stand smiling in front of a balloon arch, with a tiled wall and a doorway visible in the background.

SPED Teacher: Dianne Cochran

A smiling woman with long brown hair, wearing a pink floral shirt, stands in front of a blackboard decorated with children's artwork and string lights.

Mrs. Dianne Cochran grew up in Mississippi and is a graduate of Oklahoma State University. She has been a teacher in Fort Worth for 22 years. When not teaching, she loves spending time with her husband, family, and friends. Mrs. Cochran loves teaching and believes that all children deserve to have the best education possible

Speech: Elizabeth Surita-Khuat

Elizabeth is a proud FWISD graduate who went on to receive her undergraduate degree from Texas Christian University, and her master's degree from the University of Houston. She has worked for 15 years as a bilingual SLP with pediatric populations. Elizabeth loves traveling, cheering on her Horned Frogs, and spending time with her husband and their two dachshunds.

LSSP: Dr. Nekedria Clark

My name is Nekedria Clark and I have been the Licensed Specialist in School Psychology at Cesar Chavez for 12 years. I was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma but moved away to attend college at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. I received my BS degree in Psychology from Vandy, then I moved to New York City to attend graduate school at Pace University. I received both a Master's in Education and a Doctorate in Clinical-School Child Psychology at Pace. I have lived in Texas for the past 19 years and have 2 daughters who are native Texans.

Dyslexia: Melinda Vargas

Hello! My name is Mrs. Vargas. I bring with me 18 years of teaching experience, and I am passionate about helping students grow and succeed. I am a bilingual certified teacher and a Structured Literacy Interventionist, now entering my 10th year in this specialized role.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse learners, and I believe every child has the potential to thrive when given the right tools and support. My goal is simple yet powerful: to make a difference in every child’s life. I strive to create a nurturing, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where students feel confident and empowered.

I look forward to a wonderful year filled with growth, learning, and success!

Dyslexia: Rebecca Gutierrez

My name is Rebecca Gutierrez and this will be my 20^th year as an educator. I am a Dyslexia Teacher and I absolutely love my job. I am married and have three beautiful grown children. I love to travel, listen to music, cook, attend cultural events and spend time with my wonderful family and friends. I have traveled to twenty-three countries and have lived in Germany. I was born in Chicago, Illinois. I have two dogs, a Rottweiler and a husky. I also have two parakeets. I look forward to a wonderful year of learning!

SPED Teacher: Catherine Adkinson

My name is Catherine Adkinson. This will be my fourth year at Cesar Chavez Elementary. I have lived in Fort Worth my entire life and attend the University of North Texas in Denton. This will be my 24st year teaching in Fort Worth ISD. I have taught Kindergarten, 1st grade and Special Education. I am married to my high school sweetheart Keith, and we have a dog named Tyson. In my spare time I love to travel and spend time with my family

Diagnostician: Kimberly Cochran

My name is Kimberly Cochran. I have been working with children in education for 18 years. I I have really enjoyed learning how to better serve my students. I love working with children and watching them learn and grow. I have been married for 24 years and have 3 wonderful boys who keep me busy. In my spare time I enjoy being outdoors with my family camping and off-roading.

Lydia Tello: Sped Teacher

A smiling woman with long, dark hair wears a blue striped shirt in the foreground, with a blue banner featuring red and black graphics in the background.

My name is Lydia Tello. I was born and raised in the Diamond Hill area and graduated from Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School. I went on to study Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Math and Science at The University of Texas at Arlington.

I have ten years of educational experience within FWISD, all at the middle school level, and I am now blessed to be here at Cesar Chavez!

Some of my favorite activities include spending quality time with my husband and our two sons. I especially love creating new memories and experiencing life through the eyes of my four-year-old and two-year-old.

SEARCH

POPULAR LINKS

Find it Fast