- Manuel Jara Elementary School
- Meet the 2nd Grade Teachers


Phone: (817) 814-4500
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Garza
2nd Grade Dual Language Teacher
I am Mrs. Garza. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Bilingual Education and Masters of Reading from Texas Wesleyan University. I have been teaching at Manuel Jara Elementary since the spring semester of 1997. I love teaching students who are enthusiastic about learning and enjoy seeing my students’ progress from the beginning of the school year up until the end of the year, since I am able see how much they have learned. In my spare time, I love spending quality time with my family.
My Favorite:
Color: Red
Book: Anything interesting novel or cookbook
Travel Spot: Europe
Sport: Basketball
Candy: Snickers, Almond Joy or Recess
Food: Lasagna, Enchiladas, Chiles Rellenos, Cocktail Shrimp

Phone: (817) 814-4500
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Gilliam-Gillis
2nd Grade Regular Program Teacher
Hello! My name is Leah Gilliam-Gillis. I was born and raised here in Fort Worth. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology as well as a Master of Arts in Teaching from Austin College in Sherman, Texas. I have a passion for learning and teaching, and I look forward to the upcoming school year! I consider myself blessed to have an opportunity to work with young minds and help mold them into the leaders of the future!
My Favorite:
Color: Purple
Book: Stephanie's Ponytail
Candy: Chocolate
Snack: Potato Chips

Phone: (817) 814-4500
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Money
2nd Grade Regular Program Teacher
Hello! My name is Candace Money. I am excited to be part of the Jara Family and I look forward to seeing all my students grow both academically and socially. My students are awesome and I am honored to be their teacher.

Phone: (817) 814-4500
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Rosales
2nd Grade Dual Language Teacher
Hello, my name is Gabriela Rosales. I grew up attending Fort Worth ISD and graduated from the University of North Texas in Denton. I love to spend time with my family, travel, read books, and watch movies. I believe that education is one of the most powerful weapons that a child can have to change the world and it brings me great pleasure to be able to contribute. This year, I hope to be able to teach, encourage, instruct, mentor, praise, influence, guide, and inspire my students!

Phone: (817) 814-4500
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Mrs. Valdez
2nd Grade Dual Language Teacher
Hello, my name is Brenda Valdez. I graduated from California State University, Fulllerton where I received a Bachelors of Arts in Liberal Studies. I have been serving as a teacher since 2005. I have taught all grade levels ranging from elementary to high school. When I am not teaching I love to spend time with my family. My husband and I have 4 beautiful children and we love to travel. I believe all things are possible and that every child can learn.
My Favorites:
Color: Purple
Book: I love you to the moon and back
Travel Spot: Great Wolf Lodge
Sport: Tennis
Candy: Gummy Bears
Drinks: Iced Vanilla Coffee