Rufino Mendoza Elementary School
Kindergarten Teachers
Lillibette Quinones
Hi! My name is Ms. Quiñones, and I am proud to be a teacher at Rufino Mendoza Elementary. I am originally from Puerto Rico, and I have been teaching at Mendoza for about 14 years. I truly love what I do and enjoy watching my students learn, grow, and gain confidence each day.
When I am not teaching, I enjoy scrapbooking, golfing, and spending quality time with my family. I am married and have a daughter who attends Stephen F. Austin University, and I love supporting her as she continues her educational journey.
In my classroom, I strive to create a positive and supportive environment where students feel encouraged to learn and do their best. I am passionate about helping every child succeed and take pride in being part of their educational journey.
I look forward to partnering with you to support your child’s growth and help them develop a love for learning as a proud Rufino Mendoza Longhorn!
Email: jennifer.lara@fwisd.org
Jennifer Lara
Hi! My name is Jennifer Lara, and you can call me Jen! I am a Kindergarten teacher at Rufino Mendoza Elementary. This will be my 13th year in education, and I am honored to serve our students and families as part of the Longhorn community!
When I am not teaching, I enjoy praying, spending time at church, exercising, volunteering, and making memories with my family and friends. I especially love cheering on and celebrating my three children at their events and activities!
I strive to be approachable, kind, and a servant leader who puts students and families first. I am passionate about creating a classroom that is language-rich, structured, and full of engaging, hands-on learning experiences. I believe strong routines, meaningful relationships, and high expectations help students feel safe, supported, and ready to grow.
I am deeply committed to helping students develop a love for learning—especially reading—and building their confidence as learners. I work hard to ensure every child receives the support they need through small groups, targeted instruction, and strong partnerships with families.
Our classroom is a place where students are loved, challenged, and empowered to do their best every day. I look forward to partnering with you to make this a meaningful and successful year as your child grows into a proud Rufino Mendoza Longhorn!
Email: martha.juarez@fwisd.org
Martha Juarez
Hi! My name is Martha Juarez, and I go by Sra. Juarez! I am a Dual Language/Spanish teacher at Rufino Mendoza Elementary. This is my 18th year in education, and I am proud to serve our students as part of the Longhorn family!
When I am not teaching, I enjoy traveling, gardening, and spending time outdoors walking. I love staying active and finding joy in nature.
I consider myself a dependable and adaptable team member, and I am passionate about meeting students where they are. I believe in adjusting instruction based on student needs and creating meaningful learning experiences that engage all learners. In my classroom, you will see active participation, strong routines, and students reflecting on and demonstrating their learning.
I use strategies such as modeling (I do, We do, You do), manipulatives, and ongoing checks for understanding to support student success. I am committed to ensuring all students receive the support they need through small group instruction, intervention, and targeted practice.
Our classroom is a place where learning is both challenging and fun, and where students feel supported as they grow. I look forward to partnering with you to prepare your child for continued success and help them thrive as a proud Rufino Mendoza Longhorn!