Monica Ruiz-Mills holds a Ph.D. in School Improvement at Texas State University, and a Master of Music and Bachelor of Music Education from The University of Texas at San Antonio. She earned the Principal Certification through Region 20, Cohort XIII.  She is currently the Deputy Superintendent for the San Marcos C.I.S.D. Dr. Ruiz-Mills has been an educator for 30 years. She has served as a Fine Arts Coordinator in the Harlandale I.S.D. and as an Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction in North East I.S.D. Dr. Ruiz-Mills was a Band Director for 22 years, holding positions at the middle school and high school level.  Professional affiliations include Texas Band Masters Association, Texas Music Educators Association, Texas Association of School Administrators, the University Council for Education Administrators, American Association for Teaching and Curriculum, and the American Association of University Women.

Nicole joined San Marcos CISD as the District’s Director of Elementary Curriculum & Federal Programs in July 2013, and in July 2016, became the Executive Director of Elementary Administration, and in 2018 has taken on Innovative and Special Programs. Previously, she was an elementary principal in Edgewood, New Mexico where her school earned the distinction of being ranked 9th in the state. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Minnesota State University, followed by her New Mexico K-8 Teaching Certification and Master of Arts in Education, Curriculum and Instructional Leadership through the College of Santa Fe in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She earned her Education Administration Certification from the College of Santa Fe and Superintendent Certification from the University of New Mexico, and is now working toward her doctoral degree in Global Education Leadership at Lamar University. Nicole believes in equity, justice, and inclusion, and believes all children have the right to the best educational opportunities to achieve beyond expectations.

James D. Nevarez, is the Director of Educational Technology at San Marcos CISD. Prior to moving to Texas in 2005, James worked for the Economic Development Corporation of Lea County as a Systems Administrator and Graphic Designer. He received his bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems in 2004 with a minor in Marketing; and in 2011, his Masters of Business Administration from Texas State University.  James is an enthusiastic basketball fan, songwriter and a proud husband and father.  He is not intimidated by unknowns and focuses on educating and inspiring others to become great ‘doers’.  His wish is to combine his knowledge and experience to deliver the most agile IT services needed to help successfully marry technology and education.

Gina Laidley, is the Coordinator of RTI and Professional Learning for San Marcos CISD. She has worked in the district since 1999. She has served in the district as a second grade teacher, Gifted & Talented Facilitator, Instructional Coach, and is currently working in the Teaching, Learning, and Accountability Department. She received her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from University of Texas at San Antonio and Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M Commerce. Gina spends most of the down time with family, cooking, swimming, and watching her grandkids play sports. She is devoted to supporting and inspiring new teachers and helping teachers meet the needs of all the students in their classrooms.