With the first day of school around the corner, United Independent School District kicked off its New Teacher Orientation, welcoming nearly 100 new educators who are set to make an impact in classrooms across the district.
The three-day workshop serves as a comprehensive onboarding experience, equipping new teachers with essential resources, training, and support to ensure a smooth transition into their new roles. Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz, district administrators and department leaders personally greeted the group, offering words of encouragement and heartfelt advice.
“As someone who absolutely loves this field and believes in the work we do, I thank them for choosing this career, this path with UISD. It is so rewarding and unlike any other career,” said Rebecca Coss-Morales, Associate Superintendent of District Administration and Student Services. “They’re joining a great family that is here to support them every step of the way.”
This year’s orientation had an extra layer of excitement as Dr. Cruz and Mrs. Coss-Morales recognized three familiar faces, former UISD and LISD students who are now returning as teachers.
Dr. Cruz and Mrs. Morales are proud of their former high school and middle school students who have chosen to join the UISD family as educators. From L-R: Mr. Fernandez, Dr. Cruz, Mrs. Coss-Morales, Ms. Miller and Mr. Dickerson.
“The second we saw each other was instant excitement,” said Elizabeth Miller, a new Pre-K teacher at Trautmann Elementary, recalling the moment she reunited with her former United Middle School principal, Mrs. Coss-Morales at the orientation.
Miller, who previously worked as a literacy grant researcher at Texas A&M, shared her motivation for returning home, “UISD (Alexander High School) is my alma mater, and it feels incredible to give back to the community that raised me. I can’t wait to start teaching. Everyone at UISD has been so motivating, so excited for us to join the team, and it really feels like a family here.”
Among the group was also one of Dr. Cruz’s former Nixon High School students, Erick Fernandez, who, after three years of substituting with UISD decided to pursue a career in education. “I absolutely fell in love with teaching. Some of the people that have made the greatest impact on me have been my teachers. Now I get to give that same inspiration to my students, so I’m really looking forward to that and making a difference. I feel really blessed,” said Fernandez, who will join the Bonnie Garcia Elementary team as a fifth-grade teacher.
“We recognize their enthusiasm and are committed to offering ongoing support, ensuring they feel confident and integrated within our educational community,” said Celia Taboada Rossel-Taboada Director of Professional Staff Development & Library Services. “Additionally, it provides a platform for new teachers to connect and foster professional relationships with their colleagues,” Taboada added as she highlighted the importance of this orientation.
The new hires represent all grade levels and content areas, reinforcing UISD’s commitment to providing every student with dedicated, highly qualified educators.
“Our new teachers are the future of UISD. Their energy, passion, and dedication will lead the next generation of leaders and we are honored to welcome them into our family,” said Dr. Cruz.
Anyone interested in joining the UISD family can contact the district’s Human Resources Department at 956.473.6273. for employment opportunities.
Additional settings for Safari Browser.
