5th Grade Teachers

Dr. Antonio Cisneros

English Language Arts & Math

I am a proud son of a bicultural family, raised from Mexican and Irish roots; I grew up in the vibrant southside of Mexico City.

As a TAG student, I loved learning about a lot of different things. My biggest wish was to see the world with my own eyes and make the pictures in my books come to life. This made me want to double major in International Relations and Political Communication. I finished with a Magna Cum Laude from UDLAP and a minor from Texas Christian University (Go Frogs!). This made it possible for me to go to school in the UK, where I got my Masters in International Development from the University of East Anglia.

When I went back to Mexico, I obtained a Ph.D. in Management. I worked in different international businesses for seven years before I found my calling in the classroom. This will be my 11th year teaching, and my fourth year as a 5th grade bilingual teacher at TAG in Pleasant Grove.

Beyond my classroom, I serve as our Elementary Chairperson and as Head Coach of the Middle School Debate team. Coaching debate is where I get to watch that spark catch fire—guiding students to research boldly, think critically, and speak with conviction. This year I was honored to be named New Coach of the Year by the Dallas Urban Debate Alliance. I also serve as a licensed debate judge on our local circuit.

I'm a huge Star Wars and Lord of the Rings fan, a student of the Force, and I believe there's a spark to be ignited in everyone. "I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me" is my favorite Star Wars quote.

 

 

Mr. Carlos Villarreal

Spanish Language Arts, Science, & Social Studies

Hi everyone! I’m Mr. Villarreal, and I get to teach 5th grade and coach the First Lego League team at TAG in PG. If you like building, coding, or creating, come find me! I love helping students grow in math, reading, and test prep—and nothing beats the “aha!” moment when something tricky suddenly clicks.

Before teaching, I studied engineering and business, so I bring a big love for problem-solving, teamwork, and tech into our classroom adventures. I also speak English and Spanish, because everyone’s welcome here!

Can’t wait to see your awesome ideas and big dreams this year—let’s make it amazing together!

 

Mrs. Diana Rodriguez

Self-Contained

Hi TAG in PG stars! I’m Mrs. Rodriguez, and I’m so excited to be part of the TAG in PG family! I’m originally from Saltillo, México, and I’ve been teaching for more than 20 years. I especially love helping students grow their reading, writing, and research skills in both English and Spanish.

I earned my Master’s degree in Information Science and Knowledge Management  and a Bachelor’s degree in Education, and throughout the years I’ve worked as both a teacher and librarian. I enjoy creating fun and meaningful learning experiences where students feel supported and inspired to try their best.

I love adventures, whether that means traveling to new places or diving into a good book. When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me outside enjoying nature. Let’s make this year fun, full of curiosity, and packed with new things to discover together.