Ms. Iris M. Velarde is a dedicated and accomplished educator with over 17 years of experience advancing academic excellence and student growth across diverse cultural and educational settings. Raised in Seattle, Washington, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish with a minor in International Studies from the University of Washington.

Iris began her educational career as a Preschool Teacher at Salam Academy in Sacramento, California, where she fostered foundational learning and social-emotional development through research-based instruction and structured play. In 2011, she was selected for the prestigious New York City Teaching Fellows program, which launched her into public education at Andries Hudde Junior High School. There, she incorporated technology into the classroom and created inclusive learning environments that met the needs of all learners.

She went on to serve as a Special Education Teacher at Sheepshead Bay High School in Brooklyn, teaching core subjects—including Math, Science, English, Social Studies, and Spanish—to students in grades 9–12. Her instruction supported both general education and specialized life skills students. Beyond the classroom, she led student council and yearbook initiatives, encouraging student leadership and voice.

From 2018 to 2020, Iris broadened her impact internationally as a First Grade Teacher in the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) at Advanced Learning Schools in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. She delivered inquiry-based, globally minded instruction that promoted critical thinking, collaboration, and cultural awareness.

Returning to the United States, Iris joined Austin Achieve Elementary School in Texas, where she served in multiple leadership roles—including Second Grade Teacher, Grade Level Chair, Mentor Teacher, and Principal in Residence. She led team planning, coached novice educators, analyzed data, and implemented strategic instructional practices to close achievement gaps.

Today, Iris serves as the Head of Academics for Lower School at Austin Peace Academy. In this role, she oversees curriculum development, instructional planning, and teacher coaching for the lower school division. She also continues to teach, modeling best practices and supporting a school-wide culture of academic rigor and equity.

Iris holds a Master of Science in Education with a Bilingual Extension and Special Education focus from The City College of New York. She is deeply committed to educational equity, instructional excellence, and nurturing a love of lifelong learning in both students and educators.