Dr. Michael Griffin, EdD, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Northwest ISD

Dr. Griffin is an assistant superintendent in Northwest ISD, serving over 32,000 students in the fastest growing school district in the DFW metroplex. Dr. Griffin has served as an administrator in NISD for over 15 years. She and her team of executive directors have been instrumental in leading the district-wide implementation of the district's MTSS Behavior Framework for the past 2 years.

Dr. Summer Martin, PhD, Executive Director of Counseling & Prevention Services

Dr. Summer Martin is a dedicated advocate for mental health and counseling in educational settings, currently serving as the Executive Director of Counseling and Prevention Services for Richardson Independent School District in North Texas. In this role, she oversees comprehensive counseling, mental health, prevention and intervention services, as well as pregnancy-related services, foster care, and behavior management initiatives, all aimed at fostering student success and well-being.

With two decades of experience as a counselor, Dr. Martin has a deep understanding of the challenges students face and the support they need to thrive. She also shares her expertise as an adjunct professor of school counseling at Dallas Baptist University, where she nurtures the next generation of counselors.

A former president of the Lone Star State School Counseling Association, Dr. Martin is actively involved in the SMU District Leadership Fellows Program and is on the Board of Directors for Mental Health America of Greater Dallas, furthering her commitment to improving school counseling practices. Her passion lies in advocating for mental health resources in schools, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to achieve their highest potential.

Joe Miniscalco, M.Ed., Senior Executive Director of Student Services

Joe is a dedicated educator with 28 years of experience, including 24 years as a public school administrator—12 as a campus leader and 12 in senior management. He has led seven departments and held four senior management roles, coaching and developing PK-12 principals in a district of 24,000+ students and nearly 3,000 certified staff.

Joe leverages his diverse background to develop systems that foster leadership and capacity building. Skilled in strategic planning and problem-solving, he emphasizes commitment over compliance to drive meaningful change. A results-driven leader, he excels in facilitating action-oriented meetings, ensuring accountability, and guiding teams toward student success.

Cecilia Galvan, M.Ed., Executive Director Enrollment and Access

Cecilia has dedicated 27 years to education, serving in various leadership roles that have shaped student success and instructional excellence. Beginning her career as a teacher, she quickly advanced to instructional coach, then assistant principal, and later principal, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering academic growth and positive learning environments.

Currently, as the Student Services Director for Richardson ISD, Cecilia leads initiatives that enhance student support systems. She also serves as the Project Manager for the district-wide implementation of Tier 1 behavior support in collaboration with Emergent Tree, ensuring proactive and effective behavior interventions that support student achievement.

With a passion for equity, student engagement, and instructional best practices, Cecilia continues to drive innovative strategies that empower educators and create inclusive school communities. Her experience and leadership make her a pivotal force in shaping RISD’s approach to student success and behavioral support.

Tiffany Frezza, M.Ed., Lead Behavior Support Specialist

Tiffany is in her fifth year as a Behavior Support Specialist and currently serves as the Team Lead for Behavior Support Specialists in RISD. With 16 years of experience teaching Special Education across all grade levels, from elementary to high school, she is deeply committed to supporting students and creating positive, inclusive learning environments. In addition to her teaching experience, she has served as an ESY administrator for five years and as a dedicated member of the Special Olympics committee. She has also earned certifications in Advanced Management and Leadership, as well as Social-Emotional Character Development Instruction.

Beyond her professional life, she is a proud mom of five, with children ranging in age from 30 to 17. Her 10-month-old grandson is the light of the family, bringing endless joy. Completing the household is King, a very spoiled and irresistibly cute Yorkie.

Christy Freeman, M.Ed., Director of MTSS-B, Waco ISD

For 24 years, Christy has dedicated her career to serving students in the field of education. Her roles have included Special Education Teacher, Campus and District-Level Behavior Intervention Support Specialist, and Special Education Coordinator. She currently serves as the Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support.

Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of working with students from Pre-Kindergarten to high school. She firmly believes that our most challenging students often highlight areas where our educational systems need improvement. As educators, we have a responsibility to meet students where they are, providing them with the necessary skills and resources to achieve success and thrive beyond the classroom.

When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family. She has been married to her husband, Jeff, for 15 years. He serves as a Lieutenant with the Waco ISD Police Department. They cherish spending time together camping with their children and watching their youngest daughter play softball.

Caroline Nadel, M.Ed., District Behavior Coach MTSS-B, Waco ISD

Born and raised in Long Island, New York, Caroline is currently a District Behavior Coach for Waco ISD within the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support for Behavior (MTSS-B) department. Previously, she served as a Special Education teacher both in Waco and back home in New York. She holds a Texas Educator Certificate in Special Education (EC-12) and a New York State Teaching Certificate in Students with Disabilities. She earned her Bachelor's degree from Towson University, majoring in Family Science and received her Master of Science in Education with a specialization in Inclusive Early Childhood Special Education from Hofstra University.

She is actively pursuing her Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership and Administration at Baylor University, where she is deepening her expertise and continuing her commitment to transforming educational systems.

Adam Nulph, M.Ed., District Behavior Coach MTSS-B, Waco ISD

Adam is a Behavior Coach for the Waco Independent School District. After earning his undergraduate degree from the University of North Texas and gaining valuable experience in the retail industry, Adam discovered his true passion for education through substitute teaching. While working as a Special Education Teacher, he earned a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Baylor University. Adam is currently pursuing his Ed.D. at Baylor.

As a Behavior Coach, Adam supports staff in elementary, middle, and high schools in developing and implementing effective behavior management and social-emotional learning strategies. These strategies aim to enhance academic performance and emotional engagement. Adam firmly believes that the relationships we build with our students directly influence their success as they enter the world.

Kimberly Spurgers, M.Ed., Director of District Behavior Support, San Angelo ISD

Kimberly Spurgers serves as the Director of District Behavior Support at San Angelo ISD, guiding 21 campuses in implementing MTSS Tier 1 and Tier 2 for behavior. With 23 years of experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her role.

Previously a principal for 14 years, Kimberly developed expertise in instructional leadership, student behavior management, and creating positive school climates. Her commitment to student success and inclusivity has been a driving force throughout her career.

This year, Kimberly has focused on Job Alike PLCs, strengthening collaboration to enhance Tier 1 MTSS-B implementation. Through structured discussions and shared learning, she has helped campus leaders build sustainable behavior systems and increase fidelity of practice.

Kimberly is dedicated to empowering educators and school staff to create environments where all students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. With a background in educational leadership and a focus on positive behavior interventions, she is committed to making a lasting impact on students and the success of San Angelo ISD.

Kathleen Sullivan, MBA, M.Ed., Founder & Head of School, Jefferson RISE Charter School

Kathleen Sullivan is the Founder and Executive Director at Jefferson RISE Charter School. Over the last 10 years, under Ms. Sullivan’s leadership, Jefferson RISE earned Top Gains Honoree Award (2024) and was recognized for significant growth in the School’s Performance Score (2023). Prior to opening Jefferson RISE, Ms. Sullivan participated in an intensive training program concentrated on the skills needed to design, found, lead, and sustain a high performing charter school. An award winning teacher and instructional coach, she spent eight years working with at-risk students in an urban school district where she was celebrated for bringing innovation, excitement, and love of learning to the classroom. Ms. Sullivan has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Fairfield University, a Master’s in Education from University of Bridgeport, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Loyola University.

Zachary Moss, M.Ed., Senior Director of Non-Instruction

Zachary Moss is the Senior Director of Non-Instruction at Jefferson RISE Charter School, where he leads strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, student support services, and overall school culture. He holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Executive Leadership, equipping him with a strong foundation in organizational leadership, education management, and data-driven decision-making. Having 10 years of experience in education and leadership, Zachary has successfully developed and implemented programs that improve student outcomes, streamline school operations, and foster a positive and inclusive school environment. His expertise spans areas such as program management and evaluation, behavioral interventions, and cross-departmental collaboration. Throughout his career, Zachary has been recognized for his contributions to education and leadership, helping Jefferson RISE earn accolades such as Top Gains Honoree Award (2024) and significant growth in the School’s Performance Score (2023). Passionate about equity and inclusion, he remains dedicated to ensuring all students have the resources and opportunities to thrive.

Rachel Ulmer, MA, Special Education Coordinator, New Braunfels ISD

Rachel is the District Special Education Coordinator for New Braunfels ISD, bringing 18 years of experience in special education as a teacher, behavior specialist, and coordinator. Born and raised in San Antonio, Rachel developed a passion for education early on, earning her degree in education from Texas A&M University and later obtaining a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. Dedicated to supporting students with diverse needs, she works to create inclusive learning environments and provide resources for both students and educators.

Outside of her professional life, Rachel is a proud mother of two middle schoolers. Together, they enjoy spending quality time at the beach and exploring parks. Whether advocating for students or making memories with her children, Rachel is committed to fostering growth, learning, and meaningful connections in her life.

Sarah Pena, M.Ed., Coordinator of Social Emotional Development, East Central ISD

Sarah is the Coordinator of Social and Emotional Development at East Central ISD in San Antonio, TX. She oversees Comprehensive Case Management, including tiered behavior systems, school counseling, social services, and mental health partnerships. Holding a Master’s in Education from UTSA, she is passionate about fostering supportive environments that promote student well-being and success.

Beyond her professional role, Sarah cherishes the unique perspective that comes with being married to a School Resource Officer and deeply values her blended family. She is a proud mom to a new middle school student, a recent high school graduate, and an adult daughter who recently welcomed Sarah’s first grandchild—an exciting new chapter in her life!

Caroline Rogers, BA, Instructional Coach, Dripping Springs ISD

Caroline Rogers is an instructional coach in Texas with 18 years of experience in education who specializes in supporting teachers in grades PK-12. She began her career as a kindergarten teacher before transitioning to third grade and later serving as an elementary school librarian, fostering connections with students from pre-K to fifth grade. With a passion for educating the whole child, she now supports PK-8 teachers in building positive classroom environments through proactive coaching, professional development, and in-class support.

She specializes in behavior management and student engagement, utilizing research-based frameworks such as Kagan Cooperative Learning, Leader in Me, PBIS, and Emergent Tree. Mrs. Rogers also collaborates on district-wide support plans to align behavior interventions across schools.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Business from Texas State University and earned her alternative teaching certification for early childhood through fourth grade.

Peggy Simmons, Intervention Coordinator, Dripping Springs ISD

Peggy serves as the MTSS/Intervention Coordinator for Dripping Springs ISD.  She began her career as a high school English teacher with a strong passion for supporting struggling learners.  She moved into a support role as a secondary literacy specialist then MTSS coach for all high schools in a large urban district.

Prior to coming to DSISD, Peggy worked as the MTSS Facilitator at a 6A high school, building their MTSS framework for academics, behavior, and personal wellness.  She brings many years of experience and expertise with MTSS, as well as a strong sense of purpose around helping students and teachers to be successful, to her work each day.  

She holds a B.A. in English from the University of Texas at Tyler, an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Texas Tech University, and holds a TBRI practitioner certification.

Amanda Real, LSSP, NCSP, Licensed School Psychologist

Amanda is a licensed specialist in school psychology (LSSP) and a nationally certified school psychologist (NCSP) with 15 years of experience working in public education. She began her education career working in schools as an LSSP, later serving as a behavior specialist, coordinator, and director of special education services at the district level. Regionally, Amanda has previously served as the Child Find consultant for the Education Service Center, Region 20 in San Antonio, TX. Amanda’s professional leadership has included various roles on the board of the Texas Association of School Psychologists (TASP). She has a passion for high-quality support and services to students with disabilities and the individuals who provide them. 

Amanda's professional experiences inform a unique perspective, emphasizing effective and efficient systems and compliance while maintaining a strong focus on students and practitioners in daily school operations. Her areas of interest include Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Section 504, special education, behavior, cultural diversity, and ethics in school psychology, research, and evidence-based interventions, as well as action planning and progress monitoring.

Amanda resides in the greater San Antonio area with her husband of 12 years. She is involved in ranching, actively participates in her church parish, and enjoys gardening and cooking.