Faculty and Staff

- For every student that walks through the doors of St. Austin, there is a team of teachers and staff committed to that student’s success who guide them along their academic journey.
  Here at St. Austin, we go to great lengths in order to attract and retain the highest quality of teachers and professionals who share in our school’s commitment to a holistic, academically superior, education.
Administration
- Tara Cevallos
  M. Ed., LDT, CALT-QI
  Principal
  
  “Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire.” – St. Catherine of Siena
  Mrs. Cevallos is a dedicated educational leader with over 15 years of experience in Catholic education, dyslexia therapy, and curriculum development. Since 2017, she has served as Principal of St. Austin Catholic School, fostering a Christ-centered, academically rigorous environment that supports the needs of all learners. Previously, she was an Academic Learning Specialist and Curriculum Director, aligning curriculum with state standards and overseeing the MTSS process. She also serves on several influential boards and councils, including the Governor’s Continuing Advisory Committee for Special Education and the Diocesan School Advisory Board.
  Audrey Cortez-Juarez
  Communications & Events Manager
  
  “Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.” - St. Therese of Lisieux
  Mrs. Cortez-Juarez brings over a decade of experience in Catholic school administration, currently leading communications and marketing at St. Austin. She began her career in Catholic education at Strake Jesuit College Preparatory in Houston and has been with the Diocese of Austin since 2019, starting at San Juan Diego Catholic High School. Audrey holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Stephen F. Austin State University. She enjoys exploring new restaurants, training for a half marathon, and spending time with her husband, Ramiro, their two-year-old son, Joaquin, and their dogs, Gunner and Jet Leigh.
  Stephen King
  IT Director
  
  “Love, and the Lord will draw near; love, and He will dwell within you.”
  - St. Augustine
  Bio coming soon! We're excited to share more about Mr. King and his contributions to our St. Austin community.
  Maria Bello
  Receptionist
  
  “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  - Isaiah 41:10
  Ms. Bello has been working in Catholics school for 22 years and she has enjoyed working with kids since her beginning as a PK teacher Aide. She believes Catholic education impact students for life and make them a better person. She got a degree in Business Administration from University of Chile in her country, Chile. In her free time, she exercises, walks and enjoys cooking. Ms. Bello wants to continue growing in this community and help the kids in any way she can.
  Kathryn Meyeres
  Administrative Assistant
  
  “Actions speak louder than words; let your words teach and your actions speak.” – St. Anthony of Padua
  Mrs. Meyeres is an alumnus of St. Austin Catholic School and a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned her BS in Applied Learning and Development. Though 2024-2025 is her first school year as Administrative Assistant, Kathryn brings 11 years of teaching experience to St. Austin. Outside of work, Kathryn enjoys swimming with her twins, traveling to new destinations, and cheering on the Texas Longhorns!
  Angelica Segura
  MBA
  Business Manager
  
  “The greater one’s love is, the easier is the work.” - St. Augustine
  Bio coming soon! We're excited to share more about Ms. Segura and her contributions to our St. Austin community.
  Chantele Cisneros
  MAHS
  Director of Admissions
  
  “Always be faithful in the little things, for in them our strength lies” - St. Mother Teresa
  Mrs. Cisneros holds a BA in Public Justice from St. Mary's University, an MA in Administration in Human Services from St. Edward's University, and a Catholic School Leadership Graduate Certification from Creighton University. With 12 years of experience in the Diocese of Austin, she has served as a Teacher Assistant, Dean of Students, and now Admissions Director at St. Austin Catholic School. Passionate about Catholic education, she embraces the school's mission to nurture academic excellence, foster spiritual growth, and build a strong values-based community. As a parent of three children who have thrived in Catholic schools, she understands firsthand the impact of faith-based education.
  Bedina O'Neill
  M. Phil
  Director of Advancement
  
  “I would like an abundance of peace. I would like full vessels of charity. I would like rich treasures of mercy. I would like cheerfulness to preside over all."
  - St. Brigid of Kildare (451 - 523)
  Ms. O'Neill has served as the Director of Advancement at St. Austin Catholic School for over 10 years, bringing both professional expertise and personal commitment as a current parent of two students. A lifelong learner, she holds an M.Phil from University College Cork, Ireland, and is a PhD candidate expected to complete her degree in 2027. Outside of work, she enjoys travel, reading, volunteering, outdoor walks with her dog, and cheering on her kids as a full-time soccer mom.
- Clergy
  
  Fr. Jimmy Hsu, CSP, JCL
  Pastor
  
  Favorite Saint: St. John the Evangelist
  Fr. Jimmy Hsu has been a Paulist priest since 2014. Growing up in Plano, TX, he attended the University of Texas at Austin and graduated in 2008 with a degree in philosophy. Entering the seminary after college, he completed his theology training at the Catholic University of American in Washington, DC. After ordination, he served in a parish with a large parochial school in Los Angeles before he was assigned to serve in college campus ministry at UT and The Ohio State University. Prior to becoming the pastor of St. Austin, Fr. Jimmy had been sent by the Paulist fathers to obtain his licentiate in canon law at Catholic University. In addition to serving as our pastor, he also assists in the Tribunal of the Diocese of Austin. Fr. Jimmy enjoys cooking and eating good food and spending time meeting up with friends from the various places he has lived.
  Rev. Fr. Paolo Puccini, CSP
  Associate Pastor
  
  “I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.” - John 10:10
  Fr Paolo is currently in his fifth year at St Austin after being ordained a priest in 2020. Originally from Houston, Fr Paolo first came to Austin for undergraduate studies in Mechanical Engineering and Plan II Honors at the University of Texas. He then returned to Houston for three years while working in oil & gas before moving to Washington, DC to study for the priesthood with the Paulist Fathers in 2013. Fr Paolo lived in New York, Boston, San Francisco, Grand Rapids, and Rome for various pastoral internships during his seminary formation. Fr Paolo speaks fluent Spanish and enjoys traveling to visit relatives in Colombia and Italy.
- Student Support Administration
  
  Gabi Aragon
  M. Ed., BCBA, LBA, Sped Certified
  Student Support Specialist
  
  “ We cannot all do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” –Mother Teresa
  Ms. Aragon has been the Student Support Specialist at St. Austin Catholic School for 7 years. She has over 13 years of experience in the education field working in the public school, private school, and clinical settings. She has worked as a special education teacher, general education teacher, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Ms. Aragon combines expertise in education and behavioral science to foster inclusive, supportive learning environments. She also happens to be an alumni of St. Austin (Class of 2001). Hook 'em!
  Megan Oliva
  Instructional Coach
  
  “The proof of love is in the works. Where love exists, it works great things. But when it ceases to act, it ceases to exist.” - Saint Gregory the Great
  Ms. Oliva has been working at St. Austin Catholic School for three years. She taught 2nd grade for three years. She holds a degree in education from San Diego State University. She is currently in the role of Instructional Coach, where she supports new teachers. She is passionate about helping others and highlighting strengths of all teachers. Outside of school, she enjoys hikes with her pups Tinley and Saul and spending time with family.
  Amy Rogers
  M.A. Mental Health and School Counseling
  Counselor
  
  “My joy is in leading a hidden life unknown to others.” - Euphrasia of the Sacred Heart
  Bio coming soon! We're excited to share more about Ms. Rogers and her contributions to our St. Austin community.
  Sandi Rivera
  M. Ed.
  Interventionist
  
  “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.” - Mother Teresa
  Ms. Rivera is a dedicated educator with 26 years of experience and a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction focused on literacy. She is currently pursuing certification as an Academic Language Therapist and is passionate about helping children develop strong literacy skills. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her two sons and chihuahua, trying new foods, and relaxing with Hallmark movies.
- Preschool and Primary
  
  Erica Gunn
  B.A.E
  PK3/4 Teacher
  
  “We are not the sum of our weakness and failures. We are the sum of our Father's love for us and our real capacity to become the image of his son.” – St. John Paul II
  Mrs. Gunn is a dedicated early childhood educator with 10 years of experience in shaping young minds. For the past three years, she has been a proud member of the St. Austin’s community, teaching PreK and fostering a love for learning in her students. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Gunn enjoys spending quality time with her family, often exploring the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, and embracing all that her hometown has to offer. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to her students’ growth make her a valued educator and role model.
  Molly Smith
  Kindergarten Teacher Aide
  
  “Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.”
  - Mother Teresa
  Ms. Smith started teaching this year but she is not new to St. Austin. Ms. Smith graduated from St. Austin’s in 2013 and she loves being back in the St. Austin’s community, parish, and school! Ms. Smith graduated from Stephen F Austin State University in 2021, and then was off to Orlando to work for Walt Disney World as a photographer. She still loves watching Disney movies and listening to all Disney music. Outside of the classroom she loves shopping, hanging out with her family, and doing craft projects.
  Jen Gonzalez
  M.Ed.
  PreK Teacher Aide
  
  “Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord our God will be with you wherever you go.”
  - Joshua 1:9
  Mrs. Gonzalez has two sons at St. Austin and has enjoyed being in the SACS community for 7 years as a parent, volunteering on the Parents Club and as an aide. She taught for 8 years in AZ and CA in grades k-3, and has lived in Austin for 10 years. Mrs. Gonzalez loves to spend time with her family, watch her boys play sports and travel to new places:
  Thalia Ponce
  PreK Teacher Aide
  
  “It's not enough to love the children, it is necessary that they are aware that they are loved.” – St. John Bosco
  Mrs. Ponce has been a dedicated member of the St. Austin Catholic School community for four years, where she passionately helps her little saints reach their full potential while igniting their joy for life. Mrs. Ponce graduated from St. Edward’s University with a bachelor's degree in communication. She brings her enthusiasm and commitment to every classroom. Outside of teaching, Mrs. Ponce cherishes time spent with her husband and their four children, Ivanna (10), Anastasha (8), Gio (2), and newborn Antonio, and their golden retriever Cookie.
  Sara Grace Slay
  M.Ed.
  Kindergarten Teacher
  
  “A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows.” - St. Francis of Assisi
  Mrs. Slay teaches kindergarten at St. Austin Catholic school and is passionate about nurturing a love for learning and others. She holds a bachelors and masters degree in elementary education from Florida State University. Inside the classroom she values movement and discovery in learning while outside the classroom she loves hiking, baking, and spending time with her family in nature.
  Carly Walsh
  Kindergarten Teacher
  
  “Pray, hope, and don’t worry."
  - Padre Pio
  Mrs. Walsh has been a teacher at St. Austin Catholic School for six years, creating a fun, welcoming, and curious classroom environment for her students. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Education from Texas State University and is passionate about working with young learners. Mrs. Walsh finds great joy in watching her students grow academically, spiritually, and socially.
  
  Beyond her teaching role, she loves spending time with her husband and two children, as well as enjoying hobbies like reading and cooking.
- Intermediate
  
  Melanie Paidle
  1st Grade Teacher
  
  “For it is in giving that we receive.”
  – St. Francis of Assisi
  Mrs. Paidle is an enthusiastic and compassionate educator who has been teaching at St. Austin's Catholic School for 1 year. She received her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with an early childhood endorsement from the University of Texas. She has an inclusive classroom where students are able to learn and grow both spiritually and academically. When she is not teaching she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and attending sporting events. Her goal is to inspire a lifelong love of learning and help each student reach their fullest potential!
  Mary Kate Picard
  3rd Grade Teacher
  
  “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.” - St. Augustine of Hippo
  This year is Ms. Picard's first year at St. Austin. She is passionate about inspiring her students to love learning while nurturing a deep faith. She enjoys discovering their unique personalities and supporting each student’s individual needs.
  Ms. Picard enjoys playing sports outdoors, spending time with friends and family, reading Catholic books, and eating at Matt's El Rancho.
  Lydia Galvan
  MHA FACHE(R)
  
  Support Staff
  
  “I will lift up mine eyes into the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh even from the Lord. He will not suffer my foot to be moved. He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber or sleep. The Lord himself is my keeper” - Psalm 121
  Mrs. Galvan has worked at St Austin’s School for two years as a teacher’s aide and support staff member. She had retired after a forty year career in healthcare management, with the last twenty-five years devoted to working in Neuroscience. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Psychology and Healthcare Administration, respectively, from Texas State University. Mrs. Galvan is certified as a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. She is a strong advocate for the value of a Catholic School education.
  Madeleine Porras
  B.S. Ed
  2nd Grade Teacher
  
  “Let us respect childhood; let us honor the soul of that small creature of God who can already make choices of the best if we take the time to awaken her reason and make her use her judgment.”
  - Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat
  Miss Porras is in her fourth year of teaching at St. Austin Catholic School, where she began her teaching career. A proud graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, she is passionate about helping children grow academically and in their faith. Miss Porras loves building meaningful relationships with her students and creating an environment that nurtures both their learning and spiritual development. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, Boone.
  Montana Garcia
  B.S.W.
  4th Grade Teacher
  
  “Do small things with great love.” – Mother Teresa
  Ms. Garcia has been teaching at St. Austin Catholic School for two years and loves working with fourth graders during this transformative stage of their lives. She holds a bachelor's degree in Social Work from Creighton University and will complete her master's in Education from the University of Notre Dame in July. Outside the classroom, she enjoys exploring Austin, spending time outdoors, and visiting local coffee shops.
  Brooke Hoepfl
  M.Ed.
  3rd Grade Teacher
  
  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”
  - Matthew 11:28-30
  Ms. Hoepfl is in her second year of teaching at SACS and brings nearly four years of total teaching experience. She believes that a strong classroom community and meaningful relationships with students are the foundation of effective learning. Ms. Hoepfl holds a Master’s in Education from the University of Notre Dame and is passionate about literacy education and novel studies.
  When she’s not teaching, she enjoys dancing, taking long walks, and spending time with friends.
  Courtney Clifford
  B.S.Ed.
  5th Grade Teacher
  
  “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him"
  - Romans 15:13
  Miss Clifford joined St. Austin Catholic School with four years of teaching experience from Virginia and has been a valued member of our community for the past year. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from The Catholic University of America. Miss Clifford is passionate about nurturing both the minds and hearts of her students, fostering a love for learning while supporting their personal growth. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, taking walks with friends, and discovering new restaurants around town.
- Middle School
  
  Cameron Darwin
  Ph. D. in Math
  MS Math
  
  “Nothing great is ever achieved without enduring much..” – St. Catherine of Siena
  Mr. Darwin received his PhD in mathematics from Duke University in 2022. Prior to attending
  Duke, he received his bachelor’s from the University of Texas at Austin. He has worked as a
  math tutor since 2018, and has classroom teaching experience in mathematics beginning from
  2020. He taught three semesters of college calculus as a graduate instructor at Duke, and
  taught seventh and eighth grade pre-algebra at St Austin last school year. Mr. Darwin is
  passionate about any application of math, and is currently actively participating in machine
  learning research in his free time. Mr. Darwin loves to rock climb, and is a fan of Texas football
  and Formula 1.
  Linda Halm
  B.S. in Biochemistry, RN
  MS Science & 6th Homeroom
  
  " I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” - Phil 4:4-16
  Mrs. Halm has been teaching science for 25+ years--two years at high school level and the rest in middle school. She holds a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry from Texas A&M University and an associate's degree in nursing with an RN license. She loves to see the light bulbs go off in her students when they learn a new concept and make those real-life connections. She also is very passionate about academic competition with her students. Outside of the classroom she loves to bake, garden, and spend time with her family.
  Sally Doris
  BA, MA
  MS ELA & 8th Homeroom
  
  “What then shall we say to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?” - Romans 8: 31
  Mrs. Doris has been teaching for 35 years, the last nine at St. Austin's Middle School. She holds a bachelor's degree from Saint Mary's College and a masters from the University of Chicago. She strives to foster a community of readers, writers, and thinkers who love their faith. Outside the classroom, she enjoys being a grandmother, quilting, and traveling.
  Liz Hayden
  B.S. in Secondary Education, B.S. in English
  MS History & 7th Homeroom
  
  “Without the grace of God, I should not know how to do anything.” – Saint Joan of Arc
  Ms. Hayden has been teaching at St. Austin Catholic School for four years. In her History classroom, she loves creating opportunities for her students to engage with the past, present, and future. Typical activities include hands-on projects, virtual field trips, debates, and Socratic Seminars. She holds a degree in English and Education from Clemson University. After having attended Catholic school for most of her life, she loves carrying on the tradition with her students. Outside the classroom, she loves reading, hiking, and enjoying a delicious meal with family and friends.
  Taylor Garcia
  MS PE, Athletic Director
  
  “May we love as Jesus did with a love that is kind, universal, compassionate, courageous, and self-forgetful! May our love for God animate our love for others!”
  - St. Jane Frances de Chantal
  Coach Garcia, St. Austin Alum Class of 2007, has been at St. Austin in different capacities for 9 years and came into the P.E. Teacher and Athletic Director role this school year. Coach Garcia loves being a part of this vibrant community and is passionate about bringing everyone together around youth sports and spirituality. Beyond the gym, she enjoys attending UT Athletics events, spending time outside around Austin, and going to live theatre. Coach Garcia is also excited to watch her brother, Jeremy (SACS Alum Class of 2013) lead the St. Edward's University volleyball program!
  Georgiana Simon
  MS Math & Electives Teacher
  
  “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. "
  - Ephesians 4:32
  Mrs. Simon has 10 years of experience teaching middle school math and is a passionate believer that everyone is a math person. She is certified in Math, English, Social Studies, Science and Instructional Leadership. She loves teaching at St. Austin and working across the street from the University of Texas, her alma mater. In her free time, Mrs. Simon enjoys reading, singing in choirs, and exploring the Hill Country on hikes with her husband.
- Special Areas
  
  Norma Stovall
  B.S. Ed., MLIS
  Librarian
  
  “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6
  Mrs. Stovall has been teaching at St. Austin Catholic School since 2021, currently as the school librarian. She has found her true calling as a member of the St. Austin community, and she gives thanks every day to be able to work with the St. Austin children. Mrs. Stovall graduated from the University of Texas with her undergraduate and graduate degrees; she's a proud Longhorn. She enjoys reading all kinds of books, watching movies, seeing live entertainment, and being outdoors.
  Samantha Rogers
  Art Teacher
  
  “I can’t do big things. But I want all I do, even the smallest thing, to be for the greater glory of God.”
  - St. Dominic Savio
  Bio coming soon! We're excited to share more about Ms. Samme and her contributions to our St. Austin community.
  Barbara Kennedy
  B.S.Ed. , M.Ed
  Design Studio Teacher
  
  “Never miss an opportunity to do good.” - St. Francis de Sales
  With a career spanning over four decades, Ms. Kennedy has dedicated her life to education since 1981. A proud graduate of the University of Texas at El Paso—Go Miners!—she holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Ms. Kennedy spent 13 years in public education before joining St. Austin Catholic School, where she spent 30 years teaching and making a difference in students’ lives. Her experience is as diverse as her passion for teaching—having taught PK through 8th grade, coached, planned Masses, and even served as an administrator for five years.
  
  Outside the classroom, Ms. Kennedy enjoys spending quality time with her family, watching movies, and staying actively involved with the vibrant St. Austin Catholic Parish.
  Trinidad Agosto
  Music Teacher & Liturgy Coordinator
  
  “If we wish to make any progress in the service of God we must begin every day of our life with new eagerness..”
  – St. Charles Borromeo
  Bio coming soon! We're excited to share more about Mr. T and his contributions to our St. Austin community.
  Yaneth Dorta
  B.S.IE
  Spanish Teacher
  
  “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” - St. Teresa of Calcutta
  Sra. Dorta has been teaching Spanish at St. Austin Catholic School for the last two years. She is passionate about creating an engaging and supportive learning environment where students can develop their Spanish language skills. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, and her diverse background brings a unique perspective to the classroom, enriching students' learning experiences. In her free time, Sra. Dorta enjoys live music, traveling, working out, and spending time with her family.
  Riley Murray
  RN, BSN
  Nurse
  
  “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love."
  - Mother Teresa
  Nurse Murray joined St. Austin Catholic School as the full-time nurse in 2024. A Texas A&M graduate with degrees in Health and Nursing, she has experience in Pediatric Rehab and Adult Intermediate Care. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, spending time with loved ones, and outdoor activities like soccer, swimming, and traveling.
  Frank Garcia
  Facilities Manager
  
  “It is with the smallest brushes that the artist paints the most exquisitely beautiful pictures."
  - St. André Bessette
  Bio coming soon! We're excited to share more about Mr. Garcia and his contributions to our St. Austin community.

Faculty and Staff

Principal

Communications & Events Manager

IT Director

Receptionist

Administrative Assistant

Business Manager

Director of Admissions

Director of Advancement

Pastor

Associate Pastor

Student Support Specialist

Instructional Coach

Counselor

Interventionist

PK3/4 Teacher

Kindergarten Teacher Aide

PreK Teacher Aide

PreK Teacher Aide

Kindergarten Teacher

Kindergarten Teacher

1st Grade Teacher

3rd Grade Teacher

Support Staff

2nd Grade Teacher

4th Grade Teacher

3rd Grade Teacher

5th Grade Teacher

MS Math

MS Science & 6th Homeroom

MS ELA & 8th Homeroom

MS History & 7th Homeroom

MS PE, Athletic Director

MS Math & Electives Teacher

Librarian

Art Teacher

Design Studio Teacher

Music Teacher & Liturgy Coordinator

Spanish Teacher

Nurse

Facilities Manager