I am very elated and excited to be serving as principal at Farine Elementary. I earned my bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Texas at Dallas and my principal certification from the University of Texas at Arlington. This will be my 17^th year serving our students and families in Irving ISD. I began my educational career at F.M. Gilbert Elementary as a special education teacher.  I served in that position for three years and then entered the classroom as a 5^thgrade Bilingual teacher.  My desire to be an administrator was fulfilled the following year at M.C. Lively Elementary, where I served as an assistant principal for four years.  After having two sons, I returned to the classroom for four years as a 5^th grade Bilingual teacher.  I love being in the classroom teaching our students, inspiring them, and motivating them to DO GOOD and BE GREAT!  My two oldest sons attended Farine Elementary and participated in the Dual Language Program.  Four years ago, I had the opportunity to join the Farine Falcon Family as a 5^th grade science dual teacher and it was a memorable experience. I LOVE my Farine Falcons!  This school year will be my fourth year serving as the proud principal of Farine Elementary and I look forward to another fantastic school year.  I can’t wait to meet all of our Farine Falcons and see all the wonderful learning that will take place! GO FALCONS!

Melissa Colvin is an Irving ISD graduate from Nimitz High School, attending Lamar Middle School and Otis Brown Elementary. Her qualifications include an MEd in Educational Leadership from Dallas Baptist University, an MBA in Human Resource Management from Columbia Southern University, a Bachelor of Music Degree from the University of North Texas, and 24 years of experience in education.  She has served in Irving ISD for 10 years as a band director at de Zavala Middle School and 3 years as a Digital Learning Coach. She is very excited to support staff, students, and the community of Farine Elementary. Guiding others in discovering powers within, creating engaging learning opportunities, and embracing a growth mindset are a few of her passions.

Mauricio Valdovinos is ecstatic to be in his home district beginning his fourth year as an assistant principal. As an Irving ISD graduate, he attended Elliot ES, Barton ES, Good ES, De Zavala MS, and Nimitz HS. He received his bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Notre Dame, a master’s in Curriculum & Instruction from UTA and a master’s and doctorate in Educational Leadership from Texas Tech. This will be his 11^th year in education. Prior to joining the Farine Family, he was a 2nd grade teacher, 3^rd grade teacher, administrative intern, and instructional coach, all in Grand Prairie. He is excited to be in Irving and give back to his hometown!