Administration

Chandler Garcia, Principal

Hello Yellowjackets, I am Chandler Garcia, the new principal of Hazel Ingram Elementary. I am honored to have the privilege to lead and serve the Ferris community where rich traditions and family values run deep and create the Yellowjacket Nation.

For 13 years, I have served as a dedicated educator. Prior to Ferris, I was an assistant principal in Arlington ISD. I have also served as an Instructional Specialist and Instructional Coach in Midlothian ISD and Pflugerville ISD. Before becoming an instructional leader, I taught third and fourth grade in the Galveston area and in Midlothian.

I was born, raised, and currently live in Arlington, but the larger city life is something I am trying to escape. I received my bachelors degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas Woman's University and a masters degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Texas at Arlington. In my free time I enjoy kickboxing, crafting, and laying by the pool.

My husband Ricky and I have been together for 15 years and enjoy traveling, hiking, and attending sporting events together. Our favorite place to be is the beach. We love the sounds and the warmth of the sun, when the ocean waves are nearby to cool us off.

We have a blended family with three boys, Caleb 21, Alfonso 18, and Isaac 9. Being a boy mom definitely keeps me on my toes, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. We also have two Miniature Schnauzer fur babies, Bella and Barkley, who seem to believe that they are human.

I am excited to start the school year and look forward to meeting all of our Little Jackets and families.

Mandy Allen, Assistant Principal

My name is Mandy Allen. This will be my first year in Ferris ISD and I could not be more thrilled. I will be taking on the role of Assistant Principal at Hazel Ingram Elementary. I am coming from Waxahachie ISD where I have taught for 12 years. I have experience teaching first grade and intervention for grades K-5. I received my Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M Commerce and my Master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington.

My husband and I have been married for 12 years. We have two beautiful girls Addison (8) and Annabelle (4). In my free time I enjoy being outside hiking, biking, running and playing with my kids.

Lorin Koemel, Administrative Intern

I feel so blessed to be a part of the Hazel Ingram Elementary School staff. I have been in education for over 20 years, teaching various levels of math to some absolutely amazing students, and I am excited to be a part of the administration team at Ingram. I have been married to my wonderful husband for 27 years. We have raised three children, the oldest is a graduate of Baylor, our daughter just graduated from Abilene Christian and is now pursuing her masters and the baby is a senior at Oklahoma State University. I know that a child's first school experience is a fun and exciting time, but it can also bring stress. Please know that I am here to help you and your student in any way possible. I am excited to have you along on this adventure and with a little faith, trust and pixie dust we will have a magical year!

Donna Hernandez, Counselor

Hello!! My name is Donna Hernandez and I am the school counselor at Ingram Elementary. This is my fifth year as a counselor here at Ingram, and my 30th year in Education.

I could not be more honored to work with the students and staff here in Ferris ISD. I am excited about the great things happening at Ingram, and all of Ferris ISD. My belief is that all students can learn, and our job as educators is to reach each child on their level, help them succeed and be the best they can be. Our primary job at Ingram is to set the foundation for the love of learning so that each student becomes life-long learners and can be successful on whatever path life takes them.

In my spare time, I love to spend time with my husband, two grown daughters, and my two very spoiled Toy Poodles. I am a huge fan of Texas A & M University and love to root for the Aggie football team whenever possible. I also enjoy reading, traveling, and spending time with friends.