SAN MARCOS CISD
The San Marcos Education Foundation hosted the Distinguished Alumni event last week, inducting four new members into the Distinguished Alumni Association.
JESSE JOE CONTRERAS Class of 1963
Born in San Marcos, on Nov. 10, 1944, Contreras was one of seven children of Alfonso and Lucia Contreras. A proud graduate of San Marcos High School, Class of 1963, he excelled both in academics and athletics, lettering in several sports before continuing his education at Texas State University, Texas A&M – Kingsville and the University of Houston – Clear Lake, where he earned multiple advanced degrees in mathematics, physics and business administration.
Fernandez has dedicated over 34 years to serving students in San Marcos CISD, where she currently teaches gifted education at Hernandez Elementary. Known for her creativity and innovation, she has transformed classrooms into hands-on learning environments that blend STEAM, environmental education and cultural awareness.
ELVA GONZALEZ Class of 1978
Gonzalez has devoted more than 45 years to serving survivors of family violence, sexual assault and child abuse through her remarkable work with the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center. Over her decades of service, she rose through nearly every role at the agency — from Shelter Manager to Chief Program Officer — shaping programs, mentoring countless staff members, and ensuring that families in crisis found safety, dignity and hope.
JEFFREY JORDAN Class of 1994
Jordan is a decorated law enforcement professional with more than 25 years of service in public safety, tactical operations, and community engagement. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he has dedicated his life to protecting others, mentoring officers, and building trust between law enforcement and the communities he serves.
The San Marcos Education Foundation was created to provide assistance to and to generate financial support for the San Marcos CISD. The Foundation provides funds not available through the district’s normal operating budget for programs and activities to facilitate student achievement, to recognize and encourage staff excellence and to provide a vital link between the community and the classroom.
The Foundation Board, made up of dedicated community leaders and volunteers, supports the San Marcos Consolidated Independent School district with student and teacher recognition activities and innovative teaching grants and scholarships. The business community and local leaders consistently stand behind education as one of the most important aspects for a strong economy.
The San Marcos Education Foundation is a nonprofit, tax-exempt corporation operating independently with its own board of directors dedicated to supporting excellence in education.
For more information about the San Marcos Education Foundation, visit ww.smeducationfoundation. org.
CAROL FERNANDEZ Class of 1986
The Distinguished Alumni Association class of 2025 was honored at the Homecoming Game. Jesse Joe Contreras was represented by his grandson Evan alongside Jeffrey Jordan, Elva Gonzalez and Carol Fernandez. Photos courtesy of SMCISD
