IDEA Kyle

Gisela's career began in 1999 at Brownsville Independent School District (BISD), where she dedicated four years as a first-grade teacher. She then taught second grade for six years and third grade for eight years at Benavides Elementary. Her commitment to education led her to pursue a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Walden University, which she completed in 2017. Subsequently, she became the Dean of Instruction at Perkins Middle School. In this role, she was responsible for coaching a cohort of 61 teachers, significantly improving their performance, evidenced by an entire letter grade increase in one academic year. Additionally, she handled multiple coordinator roles, including TSI, SSI, RTI, Assessment, and Event Coordinator.
Before being appointed Dean of Instruction, Gisela contributed as a Science and ELA curriculum writer, LPAC Chair, and Bilingual Lead Teacher. In 2013, she earned the title of BISD Teacher of the Year.
After a successful 20-year tenure with BISD, Gisela embarked on a new challenge in 2019 as an Assistant Principal at IDEA Riverview College Prep. Under her dynamic leadership, the school achieved an “A” rating from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for two consecutive years, a testament to her strategic planning and effective management. The school was also recognized as the best middle school in the Rio Grande Valley. Continuing her upward trajectory, Ms. Guerra served as Principal at Bluff Springs College Prep, where she played a pivotal role in helping over 60 students successfully transition to college, a significant achievement that underscores her commitment to student success.

Known for her commitment to fostering a positive and engaging learning environment, Principal Gardener believes in building a vibrant school culture that benefits all stakeholders, from students to parents and staff. She is passionate about creating a joyful and fun educational experience, ensuring that schools are not just places of learning but also environments where everyone feels valued and inspired. In her previous roles, she has successfully implemented innovative teaching strategies, developed comprehensive curriculum, and led professional development initiatives that empower teachers to excel in their craft. Melinda strives to fulfill the mission of enhancing educational practices and creating a joyful atmosphere where every student has the opportunity to succeed and college is accessible to all.

Ms. Gardner attended Texas State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Early Childhood Education. She then obtained a master's in educational administration from Lamar University. Ms. Gardner also received the opportunity to extend her learning and development as a school leader by being selected to attend two Principal Institutes at the Harvard School of Education.