Campus Information
Year Open:
Bond Year:
School Mascot: Hounds
School colors: Hunter Green, Tan
Mission Statement:
Preparing the Driggers Hounds of today to be the leaders of tomorrow.
This is my 28th year in education and 24 of those years have been here at Northside ISD. I am originally from Progreso, Texas, a small town in the Rio Grande Valley. I have a Bachelors’ Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and Bilingual Education and a Master’s Degree In Bilingual and Bicultural Studies specialling on Gifted and Talented Students from the University of Texas Pan-American and a School Administrator's Degree from Concordia University.
Before becoming the Principal at Driggers in February 2025, I taught 1st, 2nd and 5th grade Bilingual/Dual Language. I was also a Math Specialist at Esparza Elementary, Administrative Intern at Glenoaks Elementary and Associate Principal at Fisher Elementary.
I have a wonderful and supportive husband, Ken, who worked and retired from NISD. We have two amazing sons Kenneth Jr. and Daniel, who graduated from Brandeis HS.
This year, our theme is “On Our Way to Greatness.” It reflects our belief in the incredible potential of every student and our shared commitment to creating a school environment where all can succeed, grow, and shine.
We’re looking forward to a year full of learning, laughter, and leadership. From academic growth to character development, we are ready to support our students in every way as they take steps toward their personal greatness.
I am a strong believer in building a strong school/home partnership, which is essential to the education of our students. My vision is that at Driggers Elementary, every child is inspired to achieve their best by fostering a culture of kindness, respect, and curiosity where students are excited to learn.
The Associate Principal also serves as the Campus Behavior Coordinator. They can be reached by email at melissa.alvarez@nisd.net or by phone at (210) 397-5915.
I am honored to serve as the Associate Principal at Rita Kay Driggers Elementary, where I am deeply committed to fostering a supportive and inspiring learning environment for all students.
My journey in education began with Northside ISD as a teacher at Lewis Elementary, where I taught 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. I later transitioned into leadership as an Administrative Intern at Cole Elementary, and in 2023, I was proud to step into my current role at Driggers.
I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Throughout my career, I have been guided by a passion for student-centered learning, collaboration, and equity. I believe that when students feel valued and supported, they are empowered to reach their full potential.
Building strong partnerships between school and home is essential to student success. My vision for Driggers Elementary is to cultivate a culture of kindness, respect, and curiosity—where students are excited to learn and grow.
Beyond my work in education, I cherish time with my supportive family—my husband, Jason, and our two sons, Caleb and Nathan, and our fur baby Bo. Caleb and Nathan are both graduates of Harlan High School, they are now pursuing degrees in Construction Management and Cybersecurity.
It is a privilege to work alongside the dedicated teachers, staff, students, and families of Driggers Elementary. I believe that a great school is built on trust, respect, and open communication, and I look forward to collaborating with our school community to create an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging and pride.