Magellan Welcomes New Faculty from Around the World

We’re delighted to introduce the newest members of our Magellan faculty and staff—experienced International Baccalaureate (IB) educators, counselors, innovators, artists, and student-support professionals who share a wholehearted commitment to inquiry, bilingualism, and student well-being. From Preschool through Secondary, they bring decades of classroom and leadership experience in the IB, with strengths in project-based science, technology and design, visual arts, counseling, health services, athletics, and auxiliary programming.

True to our roots as a globally minded Austin independent school, this cohort reflects the rich diversity of our community—with new team members from Chile, Mexico, Spain, India, Ecuador, Germany, and across the U.S. Their international backgrounds and Spanish–English expertise deepen our students’ daily experience and strengthen our delivery of the IB continuum with fidelity.

 

 

Originally from Santiago, Chile, Constanza Cameron moved to Austin in 2009 with her husband, where they have raised two children. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from Southwestern University and previously worked as both a yoga teacher and a Montessori teacher assistant.

Constanza is passionate about supporting children’s natural curiosity and empowering them to explore the world around them. She views learning as an active and collaborative process that benefits both students and teachers.

In her free time, she enjoys painting, being outdoors, and spending time with her family.

Originally from Mexico, Samantha González brings a passion for guiding young learners in their growth and discovery. She has taught Science, led sustainability programs, and coached soccer for preschool students in Mexico before joining Magellan.

At Magellan, Samantha creates a warm and engaging classroom where students feel encouraged to explore and learn. She is especially passionate about fostering teamwork and curiosity.

Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, staying active, and playing soccer—where she developed her skills as a goalkeeper.

 

 

Born and raised in Texas, Evelyn Azuela is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 12 years of experience supporting children and families. She specializes in developmentally and culturally responsive practices and is committed to collaboration between students, parents, and educators.

A bilingual counselor and parent of two young children, Evelyn brings both professional expertise and personal insight into the joys and challenges of family life.

In her free time, she enjoys reading, crocheting, baking, playing volleyball, and spending time outdoors.

Originally from Texas, Brenda Boccieri is an art educator with 28 years of experience, most of it in International Baccalaureate schools. She specializes in ceramics and painting and integrates visual arts into the IB Primary Years Programme as a transdisciplinary and inquiry-based subject.

Brenda has taught in Dallas, Houston, and Austin, including at Meridian World School and the International School of Texas. Her classroom emphasizes curiosity, collaboration, and global mindedness while encouraging students to take creative risks and find their artistic voice.

Born and raised in Texas, Ellis Harty holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. Ellis has spent the last five years working in a variety of educational settings, supporting students from first grade through adult education.

At Magellan, Ellis is excited to serve as the 4th–7th grade counselor, supporting both students and families.

Originally from Texas, Amy Nuñez earned her Bachelor of Science in Advertising from Texas State University. While in school, she worked at various daycares, discovering a passion for combining creativity with learning to make education fun and engaging.

Amy was drawn to Magellan’s IB program for its global perspective and inquiry-based learning. She is excited to support students and teachers while learning from the community.

Outside of school, she enjoys horseback riding, cycling, and trying new activities that spark curiosity and growth.

 

 

Born and raised in Spain, Ana Rey has lived in France and the United States, experiences that shaped her love for language, culture, and learning. She holds a degree in engineering and brings over 26 years of combined experience in engineering and education.

Ana teaches Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, and Computer Science to 9th and 10th graders at Magellan. Before teaching in both Spain and the United States, she worked more than a decade as an RF engineer in the mobile telecommunications industry.

She is passionate about showing students how math and technology connect to solve real-world problems. Outside of school, she enjoys traveling, exploring nature, playing and watching sports, and spending time with her family—including raising teenagers at home.

Originally from Málaga, Spain, Carmen Segovia studied English Studies at the University of Málaga and later earned a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education, Baccalaureate, Professional Training, and Language Teaching. She is also completing a Master’s in Digital Marketing, Communication, and Social Media.

Carmen previously worked at Magellan as a Language Specialist and is thrilled to return as a Secondary Spanish Teacher. She has also lived and taught in Spain, England, and the U.S., bringing a broad perspective to her teaching.

Outside of school, Carmen enjoys playing the violin, attending concerts, traveling, and discovering new places.

Born and raised in Mumbai, India, Josna Vaz holds master’s degrees in education and technology and has more than 11 years of teaching experience in international schools. Her work as an IB educator has taken her across the globe, where she has inspired students to integrate technology, design, and innovation into their learning.

Guided by the IB philosophy, Josna focuses on fostering international mindedness, intercultural understanding, and holistic growth. She empowers students to use design skills to solve real-world problems creatively and collaboratively.

Beyond the classroom, Josna enjoys exploring new cultures, attending workshops, and traveling to broaden her perspectives.

Born and raised in Quito, Ecuador, Monica Castro Wright brings 28 years of teaching experience and a strong passion for hands-on, project-based learning. She holds an undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and a Master’s in Education from Bridgewater State University. Monica believes that the best learning happens when students’ natural curiosity is nurtured and they are encouraged to explore the world through active, meaningful experiences.

In addition to her classroom work, she is a certified naturalist guide of the Galápagos Islands, where she has led educational expeditions for decades. This lifelong connection to one of the world’s most unique ecosystems has shaped her approach to science education and environmental awareness. Trained in cognitive learning strategies, Monica enjoys helping learners strengthen critical and creative thinking skills. She is excited to join Magellan’s collaborative community in Austin.

 

 

Originally from Austin, Hillary (Hilly) Flora, BSN, RN, brings a holistic and compassionate approach to nursing. She holds a Bachelor of University Studies in Philosophy and Religious Studies from the University of New Mexico, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Fairfield University, and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Texas State University.

Hillary has worked in a wide variety of roles—including nurse at St. David’s South Austin Medical Center, licensed massage therapist, yoga instructor, meditation teacher, and anatomy educator. She sees her new role at Magellan as a unique opportunity to promote both the physical and mental wellbeing of the community.

A proud Magellan parent since 2021, Hillary and her husband, Ben, have two Navigators: Ziya (6th grade) and Ione (3rd grade). Outside of work, she enjoys hiking Austin’s greenbelts, exploring arts and crafts, and discovering new vegan restaurants with her family.

Born in Germany and raised across Europe and the U.S., Glendon Joyce is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Cultural Geography and Spanish. He has over two decades of experience in coaching, teaching, and leading athletics and auxiliary programming. His career has taken him to Spain, Italy, Brazil, and Mexico, where he worked in education, youth sports, and university relations.

Glendon has led organizations such as Soccer Shots, Player2Player, and the West Austin Youth Association, and also worked with Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici in Florence, Italy. A seasoned world traveler and bilingual educator, he speaks Spanish and English fluently and enjoys learning other languages.

At Magellan, he is focused on building athletics and auxiliary programs that spark curiosity, promote teamwork, and develop strong citizens both on and off the field. Outside of work, Glendon is a lifelong soccer player, coach, and fan, and he enjoys adventuring with his wife, two children, and their dog.

Born and raised in the Austin/Round Rock area, Shelby Sims is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and plans to graduate next year. She has worked in childcare since she was 18, including roles at the YMCA, as a preschool teacher, and most recently as an assistant daycare director.

Shelby is also the mother of a young son, who inspires her work with children and keeps her active and engaged. She is excited to bring her passion and experience to Magellan’s after school program.

In her free time, she enjoys hiking, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with her son, family, and friends.

A native of El Paso, Texas, with strong ties to her Mexican heritage, Lillian Soto is fluent in Spanish and passionate about working with children. She recently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Textiles and Apparel.

Lillian first joined Magellan as an aftercare staff member and later gained experience at the front desk and leading camps. She is now excited to serve the school community as an Administrative Assistant.

In her free time, she enjoys designing jewelry for her brand Cielito Tesoro, sewing, gardening, and studying languages.