1st Grade Teachers

Email: ivett.angeles@fwisd.org

Ivett Angeles

Ms. Ivett Angeles is excited to join the Rufino Mendoza Elementary family as a 1st Grade Dual Language Teacher. With nine years of experience in education, she brings a passion for building strong relationships with students and creating a classroom environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to learn.

Ms. Angeles believes that meaningful connections are the foundation of student success. She strives to create a positive and engaging learning environment where students feel safe taking risks, learning from mistakes, and celebrating their growth. Her goal is for every student to leave her classroom knowing they are respected, capable, and loved.

As an educator, Ms. Angeles is committed to continuously improving her practice by using student data to drive instruction and meet the individual needs of her learners. She values collaboration, clear communication, and maintaining high expectations while providing the support students need to succeed.

Outside of school, Ms. Angeles enjoys spending quality time with her family, traveling, and exploring new places. She is excited to become part of the Rufino Mendoza community and looks forward to partnering with families to help every Longhorn achieve excellence.

Email: gerardo.cruz@fwisd.org

Gerardo Cruz

 

Email: martha.chavezarceneaux@fwisd.org

Martha Chavez-Arceneaux

Ms. Martha Chavez-Arceneaux brings 21 years of educational experience and a deep commitment to student success to Rufino Mendoza Elementary. As an intervention teacher serving Kindergarten through 2nd Grade students, she is passionate about helping every child build confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve their academic goals.

Ms. Arceneaux is known for the strong relationships she builds with her students and her ability to create a safe, supportive learning environment where children feel comfortable participating, asking questions, and taking risks as learners. She believes that meaningful learning happens when students feel valued, encouraged, and empowered to succeed.

As an educator, Ms. Arceneaux is dedicated to providing high-quality instruction, anticipating student misconceptions, and adjusting her teaching to meet the needs of every learner. She values collaboration, continuous growth, and reflective practice, always seeking ways to improve her craft and maximize student achievement.

One of Ms. Arceneaux's greatest joys is hearing students say, "I enjoyed learning in Ms. Arceneaux's classroom because it was fun," or "I really like school now." These moments remind her of the impact positive relationships and engaging instruction can have on a child's educational journey.

Outside of school, Ms. Arceneaux enjoys stretching and breathing exercises, relaxing with her favorite Netflix shows, and finding opportunities to recharge and practice mindfulness.

Ms. Arceneaux is excited to be part of the Longhorn family and looks forward to helping every student grow, learn, and thrive.

Welcome to Rufino Mendoza, Ms. Arceneaux!