Kindergarten Educator

Kindergarten Educational Assistant

Kindergarten Educator

Mrs. Parmelee is a Kindergarten Teacher at Inspira STEAM Academy with 12 years of experience in education. She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Spanish and has earned her alternative teaching licensure in secondary education. She is currently working toward her elementary alternative licensure.

As a wife, mother, and educator, Mrs. Parmelee is passionate about creating a nurturing and engaging classroom where young learners feel supported as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally. She is excited to be part of the Inspira STEAM Academy team and looks forward to inspiring a lifelong love of learning in her students.

Kindergarten Educational Assistant

Mrs. Ivonne Granados, affectionately known as "Mamatí," is a First Grade Educational Assistant at Inspira STEAM Academy. Originally from Mexico and now based in Las Cruces, New Mexico, she brings a passion for early childhood education and a strong foundation in science and Spanish language instruction.

Mrs. Granados believes that children learn best through exploration and hands-on experiences. She is dedicated to nurturing students' natural curiosity and helping them develop a lifelong love of learning through meaningful, inquiry-based activities. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, and spending time in nature.

1st Grade Educator

Ms. Gomez was born in Nayarit, Mexico, and raised in Chihuahua, where she earned her degree in Elementary Education. She has a deep passion for teaching and supporting young learners as they build the foundation for lifelong success.

In addition to her professional training, Ms. Gomez homeschooled her son for 18 years, providing him with a personalized, enriching educational experience. This unique journey strengthened her commitment to meeting each child's individual needs and fostering a love of learning.

As a First-Grade Educator at Inspira STEAM Academy, Ms. Gomez is dedicated to creating a nurturing, engaging, and supportive classroom where every student feels valued, encouraged, and inspired to reach their full potential.

1st Grade Educational Assistant

Ms. Diana Olivia SantaCruz was born and raised in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, and is fluent in both English and Spanish. She earned her General Education Development (GED) through Doña Ana Community College and is certified in First Aid, CPR, Food Handling, and Food Management.

As a First Grade Educational Assistant at Inspira STEAM Academy, Ms. SantaCruz is passionate about supporting students as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Her background in healthcare, combined with her strong organizational skills and dedication to teamwork, allows her to provide a safe, caring, and positive learning environment. She is committed to helping every child succeed while fostering a love of learning in both English and Spanish.

1st Grade Teacher

Ms. Jessica Castro-Buelna is the Lead Founder of Inspira STEAM Academy and a dedicated educator committed to expanding high-quality educational opportunities for students and families. With experience as a classroom teacher, special education coordinator, mentor teacher, and educational leader, she is passionate about creating engaging, inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive.

As a Teach Plus New Mexico Senior Policy Fellow and Governing Board member for New America High School, Ms. Castro-Buelna advocates for educational excellence and equitable opportunities for all students. She founded Inspira STEAM Academy with the vision of providing a rigorous bilingual STEAM education that inspires curiosity, academic achievement, and lifelong learning.

1st Grade Teacher Educational Assistant

Bus Attendant

STEAM Enrichment Leader