Katie Hernandez Akers serves as the Director of Talent for Brillante Academy. Her passion for education was sparked by her grandmother, a kindergarten teacher in Cuba, and grew through her own experience as a Teach For America corps member and special education teacher. She later worked at Goldman Sachs, where she developed data and analytical skills before returning to education.…
Valerie Guerrero is the Project Manager of Estrellita, a full-day Pre-K3 program operated in partnership with Brillante Academy. With nearly a decade of experience in early childhood and elementary education, Valerie brings deep expertise in child development, instructional quality, and service-based leadership. She ensures that Estrellita meets high standards in both academics and care, while cultivating a warm, structured, and…
Cynthia Valencia is the Director of Seton Texas Programs, where she leads with deep faith, purpose, and a lifelong commitment to Catholic education. She brings extensive classroom and leadership experience to her role, having served as a 5th-grade math teacher and earning a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Cynthia is passionate about providing all children access to a high-quality,…
Jacqueline Elizondo is the School Psychologist and Special Education Coordinator at Brillante Academy, where she leads with empathy, evidence-based practices, and a strong commitment to inclusive education. She holds a Master of Arts in School Psychology from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and is a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP) in Texas. Jacqueline brings over 12 years…
Mariza Cantu brings a rich and diverse background in education and administrative support to her role at Brillante Academy. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Computer & Information Technologies and an Associate of Arts in Teaching EC–6 Generalist. Her professional experience includes 13 years at IDEA Public Schools, work as a lab assistant at South Texas Community College,…
Karely Rodriguez serves as the Operations Manager at Brillante Academy, where she brings dedication, organization, and a deep belief in the school’s mission. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and has played a critical role in the school’s growth since its founding. Karely is deeply inspired by the school community and takes pride…
Liz Troncoso is the Principal at Brillante Academy, leading instruction for grades K–3rd with a focus on systems-based leadership, data-driven improvement, and a culture of high expectations. She brings over 15 years of experience in education across Brillante Academy, IDEA Public Schools, and Mission CISD. Prior to becoming Principal, Liz served as the school’s Founding Dean of Instruction. At IDEA…
Ana Karen Salinas serves as the Superintendent of Brillante Academy, bringing over a decade of experience in education with a strong focus on bilingual learning, instructional leadership, and community empowerment. She began her career as an elementary teacher at a charter school, quickly rising into leadership roles such as grade-level team leader and instructional coach. In these roles, she supported…
Dulce Salinas joined Brillante Academy in 2021 and currently serves as the Student & Family Engagement Manager and Campus Testing Coordinator. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and brings a strong background in education, youth development, and culturally responsive family outreach. In her role, Dulce fosters strong partnerships between…
Mr. Brenner serves as the founding superintendent for Brillante Academy. Aaron has spent 25 years teaching in and leading schools for children and families in the most at-risk contexts in Texas. Most recently, Aaron was the Gary and Barbara Pasquinelli Director of the Notre Dame ACE Academies, a national network of preK-8 Catholic schools. Aaron began his career teaching second…
