Our Team

Ms. Raquel Pérez brings valuable experience in bilingual education, curriculum development, and program management, with a strong commitment to fostering culturally responsive academic environments. She has worked across public education and higher education institutions, serving in various roles that support both student success and culturally grounded pedagogy. 

From 2019 to 2024, Ms. Pérez served as a Dual Language Educator for the McAllen Independent School District, where she also contributed as an ELAR/SLAR Curriculum Developer and Robotics UIL Coach. During this time, she was instrumental in coordinating campus culture and climate initiatives at Blanca E. Sanchez Elementary, promoting student engagement and community involvement. 

In 2024, Ms. Pérez transitioned to higher education as Program Manager for the Center for Mexican American Studies at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). In this role, she supports bilingual integration efforts, leads community-centered programming, and collaborates on academic initiatives that enhance educational access and success. She currently serves as Special Assistant to the Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, where she contributes to strategic projects and institutional priorities aimed at advancing student learning and faculty engagement. 

Ms. Pérez holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a specialization in Bilingual Education EC–6 and a Master’s Degree in Bilingual Education with a specialization in Educational Leadership, both from UTRGV. She is a certified Texas educator and has contributed to the field through bilingual education presentations, keynote speaking engagements at migrant youth leadership conferences, and active involvement in community service leadership initiatives.