IDEA Rio Grande City

Born and raised in Mission, Texas, Melissa began their career in education as a co-teacher at IDEA Edinburg before moving into a teaching role at IDEA North Mission. In 2017, Melissa played a pivotal role in founding IDEA Rio Grande City as an Assistant Principal of Instruction, where they have spent the past nine years driving academic excellence and supporting the school's growth and success. Under her leadership, the campus has continued to thrive, providing students with high-quality instruction and opportunities to excel.

Melissa holds a bachelor's from the University of Texas-Pan American and a master's of education from Texas A&M University-Kingsville, bringing both experience and a strong academic foundation to their work in shaping future leaders.

Her career in education began in 2005 as a classroom teacher.  In 2018, she joined IDEA as an Assistant Principal of Instruction at Rio Grande City College Prep in 2018.  She then became a Principal in Residence followed by becoming the proud principal in 2020. Karmen received her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Texas A&M University-Kingsville in 2004 and her master’s degree from Sam Houston State University in 2016.  She also obtained her Texas Principal Certification in 2016. ​

She is a Starr County native who was born and raised in San Isidro, Texas. Ms. Alaniz believes that educating students does not only happen in the classroom by a teacher, but students are also educated by an entire community.