Principal Marizza Marquez
512-414-2392 Ext 59053
I started my career as a bilingual educator over 24 years ago after I graduated from Southwest Texas State University (AKA Texas State) with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and a minor in bilingual education. I have been part of the Austin ISD community of learners since August 2007 where I have served as 3rd grade bilingual teacher at Pleasant Hill Elementary, 5th grade math and science teacher at Wooldridge Elementary, and Science Instructional coach at the campus and district level. After my tenth year teaching I was selected to participate in a bilingual teacher leadership masters program at The University of Texas at Austin, Proyecto Maestria, where I received a Masters in Education with a focus on Biliterate Bicultural studies. That program revived my passion for advocating for bilingual education programs for Emergent Bilingual learners. Most importantly I learned about the power of two way dual language programs not only for Emergent Bilinguals but for learners of Spanish. After completing my masters, I discovered a newfound love to become a school administrator to further impact and ensure the benefits of bilingual education for students. After I completed an alternative principal certification program, I started my educational administration career at Pleasant Hill Elementary, then Cook Elementary, Academy Director at Webb Primary center, and now for Sunset Valley Elementary. Being at Sunset Valley Elementary has been a dream come true because I not only have the opportunity to support Emergent Bilinguals' academic and language development, but I get to elevate Spanish to students of the English language and other languages. I'm proud of the work we have been doing at Sunset Valley Elementary because through the campus wide two way dual language program we are elevating Spanish across the community.
In my journey of being a teacher leader and a school administrator, I also became a mother. My first born, Ethan, participated in the two way dual language program at Ridgetop Elementary and continues to refine his Spanish. My youngest son, Andrew, has started his dual language journey at Ridgetop Elementary too and have high hopes he will follow in his brother's footsteps. Just as I ensure that my own children attain the 21st Century skill of being bilingual, I will continue to support your child( ren)'s journey in becoming bilingual, be self-confident individuals, who are motivated to be lifelong learners.
El futuro es bilingue! The future is bilingual! Come join our bilingual family at Sunset Valley Elementary School! -Sra. Marquez
