SAN MARCOS CISD
San Marcos Consolidated Independent School district just welcomed two new principals. James Bowie Elementary will now be led by Jessica Berry, M.Ed, and Irene K. Mendez Elementary will now be led by Suzanne Perkins, M.Ed. The San Marcos CISD Board of Trustees approved the new roles in June.
JAMES BOWIE ELEMENTARY: JESSICA BERRY, M.ED.
Berry is a proud product of SMCISD and has deep roots in the community. She attended Bowie Elementary, Goodnight Middle School and is a graduate of San Marcos High School.
She brings 11 years of experience in public education and has also honorably served the country in the United States Air Force. Most recently, Berry has served as the assistant principal at Miller Middle School for the past two years. Prior to that, she was the campus Instructional Specialist at Rodriguez Elementary from 2020 to 2023.
Throughout her career, Berry has been recognized for her leadership and commitment to education. She has received numerous honors, including Tencher of the Year, SMCISD’s LPAC Administrator of the Year and has been invited to present at educational conferences across Texas.
Jessica Berry
Berry received her principal certification from Lamar University, holds a Master of Arts degree from the University of Phoenix - Okinawa and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland.
Berry shared her excitement about this new opportunity.
“As a former Bowie student, it is a true honor to return and serve the community that helped shape who I am,” she said. “I am committed to working hand-in-hand with our families, students and staff to continue building a supportive and successful learning environment.”
IRENE K. MENDEZ ELEMENTARY: SUZANNE PERKINS, M.ED.
Perkins brings over 20 years of experience in public education to our campus. Most recently, she has served as the assistant principal at De Zavala Elementary since 2021. Before that role, she worked as an Instructional Specialist at Hernandez Elementary, also within SMCISD.
During her time at De Zavala, Perkins played a key role in driving notable improvements, including a 22% increase in academic achievement, raising student attendance from 93% to 95% and reducing achievement gaps by 15%.
Perkins holds a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of North Alabama and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of the Incarnate Word.
Perkins shared her excitement about joining Mendez Elementary.
“I am truly honored to serve as the next principal of Mendez Elementary,” Perkins said. “I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, supportive families and amazing students to continue building a strong, inclusive and high-achieving school community.”
Suzanne Perkins
