He taught two successful years at Richard King High School in Corpus Christi, Texas. There he and his grade team helped close the achievement gap from 79% to 92% passing and was named CCISD Teacher of the Year. In 2007, he earned a Master’s degree in educational administration and pursued his dream career of becoming a Principal. He was so compelled to serve his Progreso Community that he decided to become a Principal for his alma mater. Joán is an Optimista Inductee of the Hispanic Hall of Fame as an Alumni Hispanic Scholar.

In 2011, he joined IDEA at IDEA College Preparatory Mission and served as Assistant Principal of Instruction. In 2012, he became a Rhodes Scholar and attended the Harvard Educational Leadership Program, which he describes as a one of a kind experience designed to build leadership capacity above and beyond. Joán is pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Education Leadership and continues to learn and expand as a leader.

He attributes his passion for education and merits to his teachers, leaders, students, and his parents -Manuel and Gloria Alvarez- and five brothers and sisters who instilled a goal-driven mindset in him.

Today, Joán is humbled to serve as the founding Principal of IDEA College Preparatory McAllen. He strongly believes in a vision where EVERYONE has high expectations and EVERYONE holds a strong conviction for College for All!