Skip to main content

Campus Information

Year Open:

Bond Year:

School Mascot: Falcons

Mission Statement:
Co-create learning experiences within and beyond the classroom in order to maximize options for students and prepare them for future careers in education.

Transforming Education. Transforming Our Community.

Ericka Olivarez
Ericka Olivarez - Principal
Driven by a profound mission to serve within a vibrant community of learners and leaders, Ericka Olivarez is dedicated to ensuring every student has access to the enriching experiences necessary for their future success. Her extensive career in education reflects this commitment, encompassing roles as a teacher, instructional curriculum and assessment specialist, academic dean, district content coordinator, and district leadership specialist. At her core, Ericka remains a teacher, steadfast in her belief that the most positive school communities are forged when students, parents, teachers, and leaders are empowered to explore, question, collaborate, and collectively solve problems.

A testament to her perseverance, Ericka is a first-generation college graduate. She holds a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington, a Master's Degree in Political Science from the University of Notre Dame, and a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science with a minor in English Literature from St. Mary's University of San Antonio. Her leadership extends to various state, city, and district committees, all striving to cultivate schools where students and staff alike are healthy, safe, supported, engaged, and challenged.

The Northside ISD CAST Teach High School, which proudly opened its doors in August 2022, represents a remarkable opportunity for Mrs. Olivarez to cultivate and empower its students. Her vision is for these future educators to deeply discover their passion for teaching, ultimately having a transformative impact on generations to come. The school not only builds a robust foundation in educational practices but also provides invaluable career-connected experiences, rigorous college-competitive coursework, and a strong emphasis on developing life-ready skills. In her compelling words, "This is an opportunity unlike any other - to shape the future of public school education."
Professional portrait of Gabriela Aguilar
Gabriela Aguilar - Associate Principal

The Associate Principal also serves as the Campus Behavior Coordinator. They can be reached by email at gabriela.aguilar@nisd.net or by phone at 210-397-6465.

Gabriela Aguilar was born in Monterrey, Mexico and has dedicated more than 30 years as a teacher and educational leader for levels from preschool to college. In 2010, she came from Mexico to reside in the United States and proudly has served Northside schools since then. Ms. Aguilar is a passionate educator with a vision to grow achievers for life, as she believes in learning as a feeling, speaking not only to students' minds but also to their hearts.

Ms. Aguilar holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Linguistics and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León in Mexico. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education and Family Guidance from Universidad Complutense de Madrid in Spain and a Master’s Degree of Education in Administration from Lamar University. She is a proud mother of three successful young adults who are following her legacy of service in Texas. Ms. Aguilar enjoys playing her piano and illustrating the children’s stories she writes to share her message to young minds. She also keeps herself active as a triathlete and marathon runner.

  • Professional portrait of CAST Teach Counselor Mrs. Denecia Anderson
    Dr. Denecia Anderson
    Counselor

    Denecia Anderson is the School Counselor at CAST Teach High School. With a profound commitment to nurturing the holistic well-being of students, she brings 19 years of educational experience. Her expertise is built upon a strong academic foundation, which includes her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville and a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management from Webster University. Later, she received a Master of Education in School Counseling from Liberty University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Leadership, with a focus in Ministry Leadership, also from Liberty University.

    Denecia's tenure as a Professional School Counselor is distinguished by her unwavering dedication to the academic, social, and emotional development of her students. She thrives in creating supportive environments where young individuals can strive for academic excellence and personal growth. Her counseling philosophy is deeply rooted in her core values: a steadfast faith in each student's potential, a commitment to fostering resilience and self-discipline, and a drive for fostering collaborative relationships that celebrate equity. She has excelled in identifying and addressing the diverse needs of the school community, and providing tailored guidance that encourages students to maximize their abilities.

    In moments away from her counseling duties, she enjoys spending time with her husband and four children. Denecia indulges in activities that reflect her nurturing spirit, from serving others to treasured moments with loved ones, journeys to new places, and engaging in vigorous fitness routines that reflect her disciplined nature. Her life's work is a testament to her passion for guiding individuals toward a path of fulfillment and success. 

  • Hallie Gelabert
    Hallie Gelabert
    Instructional Facilitator, Advanced Academics

    Hallie Gelabert is driven by a deep commitment to fostering a vibrant community of learners and advocates. With a background rooted in a military family, she has experienced the importance of adaptability and resilience, shaping her approach to education. As a first-generation teacher, Hallie is passionate about creating inclusive environments where every student can access the learning experiences they need to be challenged and the support they need to succeed.

    Her journey in education is marked by a strong advocacy for building resiliency and determination through high expectations, both for herself and her students. Hallie firmly believes that every learner deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and she works to create environments that inspire growth and achievement. By setting ambitious goals and encouraging others to do the same, she aims to contribute positively to the lives of her students and colleagues.

    A proud first-generation college graduate, Hallie earned her Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and her Master's Degree in Learning, Design, and Technology from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). She is particularly committed to promoting student voice and critical literacy, ensuring that each learner feels valued through active engagement in their learning and community. Through her work, Hallie aims to inspire others and contribute to a future where all students are empowered to reach their full potential.
    In service,