After receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Baylor University in 2001, Mrs. Clark joined Irving ISD as a classroom teacher at Brown Elementary School.  While working at Brown, she taught a variety of grade levels.  In 2006, Mrs. Clark earned a Masters of Science in Math Education from Stephen F. Austin University. This allowed her to transition out of the classroom and joined A.S. Johnston to serve as the Instructional Coach, Interventionist, and Academic Specialist.

Continuing to feed her desire to grow in educational leadership, she obtained her administration certificate through Stephen F. Austin University in 2016.  Mrs. Clark then served the students, staff, and families as the Assistant Principal of Johnston Elementary. 

Mrs. Clark is excited to continue her service to Irving ISD as the principal of Townley Elementary. Townley’s mascot is the Torchlighter, and what an incredible symbol that is!  A Torchlighter illuminates during dark times.  It provides guidance, hope, and leads the way. 

Mrs. Clark shares, “Our students will shine academically and with their character.  I look forward to our partnership as we shine as Townley Torchlighters.”

Mrs. Clark enjoys spending time with her husband, James, and her twin sons, Thomas and Jack.  On the weekends, the Clarks can usually be found outside at a soccer game or working in the yard. 

Maria Wagoner Benjamin has been a passionate educator since 2014. Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, she grew up in Houston and began her career as an ESL Teacher in Channelview for Language Arts and Social Studies in grades 6-8. During that time, she was gifted the opportunity to support students who recently arrived in the United States. That experience ignited her passion for serving students and their families and she brought her knowledge to Bastrop as an ESL Instructional Specialist in 2018. During her time in Bastrop, she developed curriculum for newcomer students as well as supported the district’s teachers with training and coaching. In 2020 she relocated to Dallas to be closer to family. After briefly serving as a district Social Studies specialist in Dallas ISD, she came to serve in Irving ISD as an assistant Principal for Hanes Elementary. She is excited and honored to be able to serve our students at Townley Elementary.

Maria received her Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Language from Texas Tech University in 2010. She received her Master of Education in Education Administration from Texas A&M University in 2020.