It’s gearing up to be an exciting school year! Our faculty members are returning to campus this week, and our new faculty members are on campus today! In less than two weeks, students will be back on campus, and we’re thrilled to announce a group of talented instructors who will be joining TMI’s faculty!
Maria Culbreth-Garza, Upper School History Instructor –– Mrs. Maria Culbreth-Garza joins TMI with eight years of teaching experience and a passion for personalizing history. She began teaching history at the middle school level and then transitioned to teaching a variety of courses at the high school level. Mrs. Culbreath-Garza holds a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Spanish and an Education concentration from St. Mary’s University. She has a love for helping students connect with the past in ways that feel tangible and relevant. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Culbreth-Garza enjoys reading, crafting, exploring parks, the zoo, and museums.
Marguerite Surley, Middle School Math Instructor –– Mrs. Marguerite Surley joins TMI with over 15 years of experience teaching mathematics, bringing a strong passion for student growth and curriculum development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a specialization in mathematics from Texas State University. After teaching for five years, Mrs. Surley went on to complete her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Mathematics, further deepening her expertise in math education. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, traveling, and taking full advantage of the outdoors.
Kacey Johnston, Upper School English Instructor –– Mrs. Kacey Johnston joins TMI with over ten years of teaching experience, beginning with middle school before transitioning to high school. She has also taught at the college level, strengthening her knowledge for preparing high school students for what they need to be successful. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Cultural Anthropology from The University of North Florida, and a Master of Science in Secondary English Education from Old Dominion University. Mrs. Johnston has a passion for the high school curriculum and the many opportunities to support students as they grow and mature. Throughout her experience, she taught at an Episcopal school and fell in love with the community, and has also taught in Japan. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Johnston loves traveling, scuba diving, fishing, and taking her dog on adventures with her and her husband.
Oscar Hernandez, Upper School Science Instructor –– Mr. Oscar Hernandez joins TMI with decades of teaching experience across a variety of schools in San Antonio and the Hill Country. He brings a deep commitment to education and student growth. Mr. Hernandez holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from The University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Lamar University. He looks forward to continuing TMI’s tradition of excellence by fostering the development of servant leaders. Outside the classroom, Mr. Hernandez enjoys spending time watching his son play sports and spending time with family living along the river.
Lauren Wynn, Upper School Innovation and Design Instructor –– Mrs. Lauren Wynn brings a unique experience to TMI, previously working as an Engineer specializing in residential and commercial land development, and then teaching Career and Technical Education. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering with a minor in Mathematics and will complete her Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education in May 2026. Mrs. Wynn has a strong passion for design and an interest in many different engineering fields and principles, as well as the rigorous mathematics behind engineering subjects. She enjoys helping students learn the design process, the intricacies of it, learning intimidating software, and helping them feel empowered by bringing their ideas to life. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Wynn enjoys reading, golfing, CrossFit, gardening, cooking, and spending time with her family and dogs.
Lisa Melendez, Upper School Math Instructor –– Mrs. Lisa Melendez joins TMI with experience teaching every grade level from 1st through 11th in mathematics, and has taught in California, Hawaii, and Texas. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Sociology from California State University San Marcos. Mrs. Melendez’s areas of expertise include differentiated instruction, student mentorship, and the integration of technology to support and enhance learning. She’s deeply committed to creating a classroom environment where all students feel valued, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Melendez enjoys traveling with her family, watching sports and movies, and spending time near or in the water.