Professors

Kimberly Barnes

Mathematics Professor

I was born in Austin, Texas, and raised in El Paso—two places that have shaped who I am. I earned my bachelor’s degree from St. Edward’s University in Austin and completed my master’s at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). I’m currently in my fifth year as a math professor at TCC South Early College High School, and I’m proud to celebrate 15 years in education. Teaching has been more than a career—it’s been a calling, and I’m grateful for every step of the journey. My husband and I moved to Fort Worth, his hometown, and while I’ll always miss El Paso, I’m excited to build a life and make meaningful connections in this community. Outside of the classroom, I’m a comic con enthusiast with a love for cosplay and sci-fi. One of my favorite memories is dressing up as 1950s Wonder Woman and snapping a selfie with my husband and Captain Jack from Doctor Who—a perfect mix of fun, fandom, and adventure.

Carla Coronado

Social Studies Professor

I was born and raised in Fort Worth to Mexican parents. I graduated from Texas Wesleyan University in 2022 with a Bachelors in History and a Minor in Spanish. I enjoy travelling and exploring new things: food, places, etc. Most of my time is spent reading or watching television - and I have a handful of friends I absolutely adore.

Viet "Danny" Dinh

Mathematics Professor

I was born and growing up during and after the Vietnam War respectively. I was about ten years old when I first met my father, who gave up all his young life to fight and to protect the Democracy for his county. Our family moved to America in early 90’s; the journey for me to get college degree was very challenging, and there always someone standing on the side to give me a helping hand to help me to success. We might fell down many times on our way to success, but always stand up and don’t give up. This year I want to be someone to stand on the side of your road to success to give you that helping hand when you need it, I am looking forward to meet you soon.

Courtney Eason

English Professor

Professor Eason is the Department Chair of English and TCC embedded instructor in Dual Credit English. She earned her MA in English at TCU and MFA in Creative Writing at University of Alabama. She is a 2025 Fellow at The Writer’s League of Texas, where she is also a Member Captain for Fort Worth. For the 24-25 school year at TCC South Collegiate, she was selected as the Campus Teacher of the Year. Her favorite part of teaching is helping kids think for themselves and translate their thoughts into words on the page. Of course, she loves books—audiobooks, digital books, paper books—and reads multiple at once. She lives with her family in Fort Worth.

Dr. Paulita Gordon

Career and Technology Professor

Paulita Gordon is a Servant Leader with a heart full of love for her students. Dedicated to educating our next generation, Dr. Gordon is a lifelong Texas resident who has professionally served as an Educator, Life Coach and Realtor with over 30 years of volunteering and serving local and national communities. Professor Gordon is a graduate of Texas Christian University, Southern Methodist University and Northcentral University and educational diversity is her number one priority and she prides herself on being a lifelong learner so that she can always deliver the best life lessons and classroom lessons to her students.

Dr. Lita’s Personal Quotes: ~ Everyone can Learn with the right guidance ~ Servant leadership is the BEST leadership

Contact information: 682-233-0556 and paulita.gordon@fwisd.org

Joel Holcombe

Spanish Professor

I love teaching Spanish at TCC South Collegiate because Spanish is important in our culture and community. Acquiring Spanish skills adds to our marketability and development as well as personal life experience. Growing up in Hidalgo, Mexico and Chiapas, Mexico immersed me in Spanish and gave me a passion for Spanish, soccer and fabulous food. Today, I love helping others learn to enjoy Spanish and gain confidence in themselves. Before I focused on Spanish Language in my classes but now I focus on Spanish Learners!

Gina Palladino

Mathematics Professor

This will be my 11th year teaching in FWISD, my 4th here at TCC South, and my 14th year teaching overall. Before moving to Texas I spent my first three years teaching organic chemistry and physics in Rwanda. In undergrad I earned a Bachelors of Chemical Engineering from the University of Delaware-Go Blue Hens! I have lived in five other states and 2 foreign countries- but Texas is now my home. Outside of teaching and loving math I spend my time reading, watching soccer, and spending time outdoors.

Felix Perez

Social Studies Professor

Professor Perez is a proud native of Fort Worth, TX, graduating from Paschal High School, and the son of a former FWISD teacher. He currently, teaches 9th grade social studies, and enjoys helping new students acclimate to the campus. His passion lies in helping the next generation of students see their fullest potential.

You can often see Professor Perez at his desk in the Media Center working on spreadsheets or planning the next great lesson for students!

Outside of work Professor Perez is working on his masters in educational leadership and administration. In his free time, he enjoys reading, gaming, and watching tennis and basketball during their peak seasons. Go Lakers! and, "How about them Cowboy's".

Jual Rangel

Career and Technology Professor

Juan Rangel, a graduate of the University of North Texas with a degree in Anthropology, teaches Foundations of Energy with a focus on linking knowledge to practice and classroom ideas to the wider career world. Formerly an instructor of Principles of Applied Engineering, he brings both curiosity and craft to his teaching, guiding students toward the skills and habits of thought that shape futures. A Fort Worth native, he divides his own time between gaming, engineering pursuits, and the enjoyable pastimes of cooking and baking.

Veronica Redden

Science Professor

My name is Veronica Redden and this will be my seventh year teaching at TCC South. I currently teach AP Physics and Honors Chemistry. I was born and raised in Fort Worth and have lived here most of my life. I am happy to serve our students and community.

Brandon Schembri

English Professor

Hello, I am Professor Schembri! I am happy to be teaching at TCC/FWISD Collegiate High School. My wife and 3 kids, ages 4 and under, are new arrivals to the Fort Worth area. We are from Salt Lake City, Utah. Surviving Fort Worth heat has been an adjustment. This is my first year teaching at TCC/FWISD Collegiate High School. Previously I taught in a Jr. High setting as a 6th Grade English teacher for 5 years. I have worked extensively with ESL and Gifted Students and work to create a culturally sensitive space where learning can thrive. I earned a Bachelor's Degree in English from the University of Utah, and two Masters Degrees in Education from Western Governors University. During my free time I enjoy watching Brooklyn 99, garden, exercise, reading and traveling with my family. What I enjoy most about teaching is watching students grow academically.

Ben Schmitt

Social Studies Professor

Greetings! I am Professor Schmitt. After spending my entire life in the DFW area, I started my teaching career with Fort Worth ISD sixteen years ago. During that time, I have taught many different AP courses ranging from AP Macroecomics to AP World History. I recieved my bachlor's degree in History from Texas Christian University and eventually earned my Master's degree in History from the University of Texas at Arlington. I have wanted to be in education since I was six years old and I still have that same passion for teaching  and helping my community.

Nemer Tello

Science Professor

Professor Tello teaches biology and environmental science this 2025-26 academic year at TCC South / FWISD Collegiate High School. This is his fourth year at our school. His academic background includes a Bachelor's in Political Science; a Bachelor's in Literature; and a Master's in Teaching from Southern Methodist University. Professor Tello strives to make the learning relatable to his students and enjoys doing house projects and travel during his free time. He is excited and confident that this 2025-26 cycle will be an amazing one!