I graduated from The University of Texas at San Antonio where I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a specialization in Early Childhood Education. I began my teaching career in Northside Independent School District in 1996, teaching third, second and fifth grades at Braun Station and Mary Michael Elementary. Upon completion of my Master of Arts in Education at the University of Texas at San Antonio, I began my administrative journey at Villarreal Elementary, where I served as Assistant Principal. My next assignment took me to one of Northside's newest campuses, Blattman Elementary, where I was the vice principal for three years. 

In my spare time when I am not at school, my time is spent with my two beautiful children, Jessica and Graham. They are the joys in my life and I spend as much time with them as I can, whether it is driving to soccer practice, t-ball games, or dance competitions. 

I look forward to working with the students, parents, and community to make this another successful year.  Please feel free to stop by, call or email me if you need any assistance.  Together we can Lasso Success!

I graduated from Texas A&M University-Kingsville in 1996 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Masters Degree in 2003 in Educational Administration. My first teaching experience started in The Rio Grande Valley (San Benito) where I was born and raised. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a private school- Immaculate Conception School (Rio Grande City, Texas) and in districts that include United I.S.D (Laredo, Texas), and Southwest I.S.D.  I have been in education for a total of 10 and a half years and 6 of those have been in Northside (Passmore Elementary, Mary Michael Elementary and now Ward Elementary). I’ve taught 4th and 1st grades. 

On a personal note, I have been married for eight years to my amazing and supportive husband Silverio who is also an educator in the Northeast District.  On my spare time, I like to scrapbook, shop, spend time with friends and visit my family in the Valley. 

My name is Sherry Dillard.  I am happy to be the Administrative Intern here at Ward Elementary.  I have worked in NISD since 1992.  Starting my career as a 4th grade teacher, then 3rd grade teacher, finally moving to special education.  Some of you may recognize me, I was fortunate enough to assist in the start up of Ward Elementary, and teach in the CMC Lab for 3 years.  I then moved to Esparza Elementary as the Full Time Special Education Campus Coordinator, I spent two years at Esparza and moved back to Ward this school year. 

I earned my Bachelor's Degree from Illinois State University and my Master's Degree from Texas A & M-Kingsville. 

I have two children, Tyler and Robyn.  We love to spend time together at Medina Lake or in our pool during the summer.  During the school year we enjoy watching Stinson Middle School football and watching Robyn at her dance classes.

Howdy Ward Wranglers - My name is Annette Castillo. I am so happy to of been the Administrative Intern in 2008-2009. I started my teaching career in 1991 with NISD and have never left. I started at Linton Elementary in 1991 – 2003 teaching Pre-K, 1 st , 3 rd , and a year as a Math Support Teacher. From 2003-2008, I moved to Brauchle Elementary where I taught Kinder and 3 rd . In 2008, I had the opportunity to become a Ward Wrangler where I spent the year learning from great administrators and great staff to help me with my current position as Vice Principal of Ed Cody Elementary this year.

On a personal note, I have been married for 9 years to Rudy Castillo. He works at CPS Energy and loves to play golf in his spare time. We have a daughter named Alexandra, who is in 1 st grade at Bob Beard Elementary. We have a cat named Senor, a dog named Reggie, a Hermit Crab named Jack..and two fish (no names). We keep busy with school events, Girl Scouts, and YMCA basketball.

My name is Kendra Merrell and I am honored to call Ward Elementary my home. This is my second year as the Vice Principal at this school, but my eighth year in education. I am a product of NISD having graduated from Marshall High School in 1996. Both my Bachelors and my Masters degree came from the University of Texas at San Antonio. I have taught 1 st and 3 rd grade and also worked as an Academic Support Teacher helping both students and teachers with science and writing curriculum.

I spend most of my free time with friends and you can usually find me in Corpus Christi salt water fishing on Padre Island National Seashore!

2009-2010
Administrative Intern

Hello Wranglers! My name is David Romero and I have been at Ward for 3 years, teaching 5th grade and now joining the administrative team. Since joining Northside I have taught 4th and 5th grades, at Michael ES, Ott ES before coming to Ward. I received my masters degree in Educational Leadership from University of Texas at San Antonio. Beginning in the Fall of the 2010-2011, I will be the Assistant Principal at Zachry MS.

My family is a big part of who I am. I have been married for 10 years and have two beautiful children. When the family and I are not camping, attending soccer, or dance you can find me in the Texas Hill Country doing some type of hunting.