Faculty and Experts

Meet the dedicated educators, mentors, and industry professionals who inspire and guide students on their ISA journey. Our team brings expertise, passion, and real-world experience to the classroom, with over 68% of faculty having a master’s degree or higher. By going beyond textbooks, we enable students to explore as citizens and excel on a global level.

 

Andrea Puentes is currently in her 13th year teaching at the International School of the Americas, where she shares her passion for art education and community art experiences. In addition to building an art program at ISA that continues to grow in participation and awards, Andrea sponsors ISA Muralists (a student-led public art club), and leads Student Voice, connecting students with district leadership for feedback on key initiatives. In 2019, Andrea was named a finalist for NEISD Secondary Teacher of the Year. In 2026, she achieved National Board Certification - one of the highest professional credentials in education.

 

In addition to her work with students, Andrea supports the growth and learning of art educators by leading professional development opportunities and art exhibitions through the San Antonio Art Education Association. As Vice President of Education for Spare Parts, a nonprofit organization that advances reuse and sustainability through creativity and the arts, Andrea supports and advances Spare Parts’ robust on and off-site educational programs and partnerships.

 

Prior to joining the ISA community, Andrea taught art and served as Electives Department Chair for two years at McNair Middle School in Southwest ISD.  In 2016, she earned her Master of Education in Educational Leadership at Trinity University, where she graduated with a Master of Arts in Teaching in 2013 and Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art in 2012. 

 

Betsy is a proud member of the ISA's original faculty. She brings tradition and ideology to her classroom and faculty gatherings every day! Betsy also brings experience working in genetic and cytogenetic laboratories to her work with students in advanced-level biology, environmental science, and other science electives. With a Bachelor's in Biology and a Master's in Teaching, she has three decades of experience teaching at ISA.

 

As part of the center and 12th grade teams, Betsy helps students transition from upper-level science electives to post-secondary experiences. She serves on ISA's Campus Improvement Committee, guiding school-wide initiatives on our campus. Outside class, Betsy enjoys spending time with her three daughters--all ISA graduates--and sponsors the Science National Honor Society. 

 

Bonnie Brawner brings over two decades of passion and expertise in science education to ISA. With Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Chemistry and Counseling, she has taught high school science for 14 years at ISA.

 

As part of the sophomore team, Bonnie develops innovative interdisciplinary curriculum, integrating her chemistry specialty with social studies, math, and English. She also co-sponsors the National Honor Society and collaborates on the Santa Fe travel experience. Outside class, Bonnie mentors young women in science research through the Women in Science program she helped establish. Her dedication to nurturing curiosity and sparking moments in students is appreciated by peers and families alike. When not teaching, Bonnie enjoys camping, photography, kayaking and quality time with friends, family, and her dog Fred.

 

Leslie Ramirez is a dedicated math educator driven to illuminate the relevance of mathematics to real-world issues. With 22 years of secondary teaching experience and degrees in Mathematics and teaching, Leslie has spent over 15 years at ISA.

 

Since graduating from Trinity University, Leslie has become an ISA Junior Team member since 2009. Fellow faculty appreciate Leslie's innovative approach that empowers students to see math as more than formulas, nominating her for NEISD Teacher of the Year in 2023. Leslie enjoys museums, films, and travel outside class, with Ireland being a favorite destination. Her patience, care, and ability to connect content to contemporary challenges make Leslie an invaluable member of the ISA community.

 

Betsy brings over a decade of passion and talent, cultivating globally-minded leaders and learners. With degrees in English and Business, Betsy taught high school English and worked as an administrator for 12 years in diverse settings before landing at ISA.

 

Betsy serves as the Internship & Service Learning Coordinator. She mentors students one-on-one to secure professional internships aligned with their interests. She organizes international exchanges, partners on the Washington D.C. trip, and more to facilitate real-world learning. Betsy is dedicated to preparing graduates to analyze issues critically, collaborate across cultures, and create positive change. Her ability to ignite curiosity and develop student voices makes Betsy an asset to ISA's mission. Betsy enjoys traveling with her family, reading, and acquiring more degrees than necessary.