Hello, my name is Theressa Engel and I am the Principal of Bear Creek Elementary. At Bear Creek, we believe that “Bear Creek Elementary is an inclusive community who intentionally advocates for a culture of connection through integrity, resilience, courage, and empathy. We are evolving, curious, and diverse solution seekers, who are deliberately making a positive impact and contributions to the local and global community.” 

Our campus is a state-of-the-art marvel located in Southwest Austin. My hope is that you find time to come tour our building and learn more about becoming a part of the Bear Creek Community.  

A little bit about me: 

After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin, l began my career in education with North East ISD in San Antonio, Tx. During my eight years with NEISD, I taught 8th grade mathematics - Pre-Algebra, Algebra I for high school credit, and Geometry for high school credit. I also coached students for MathCounts competitions, coached UIL events, and served as the Chairperson for the campus math department. 

After a five-year hiatus, to invest in my two sons’ preschool years, I resumed her career with New Braunfels ISD. For those eight years my time was spent at Lamar Elementary. For three years, I was the campus Gifted and Talented teacher. As the GT teacher, I wrote and was awarded a grant to pilot a First Lego League team. I worked with that program until district realignment redesigned the structure of the Gifted and Talented program. For the rest of my time at Lamar, I taught 4th grade math/science and 5th grade math. In 2015, I was recognized as the Campus Teacher of the Year and subsequently the New Braunfels ISD Elementary Teacher of the Year.  

When I completed my Masters in Elementary Mathematics Education with Texas State University in San Marcos, Tx, I accepted a position with Comal ISD to become a Campus Instructional Coach for Oak Creek Elementary. My two years of exemplary service at Oak Creek led to my promotion as the Assistant Principal of the campus. During those four years, I assisted in raising the academic performance and contributed to improving the culture of the campus. In 2020, Il was selected to become the Principal at Arlon Seay Elementary in Spring Branch, Tx. I tremendously enjoyed my work as a Mighty Maverick. During that time, Arlon Seay was recognized for the academic achievement of an ‘A’ TEA Rating (95/100) and earned all 6 academic distinctions.  

While campus achievement is my top priority, the most rewarding result of this goal is to see students benefit in years to come. Seeing their personal satisfaction from a job well-done and laying a firm foundation to meet their goals and dreams is what truly makes the accomplishments worthwhile. 

My professional path has come full circle to call Austin home once again. I am honored and thrilled to join the Bear Creek family as the campus principal. I am looking forward to many years of collaboration with the educators and parents seeking to maximize educational opportunities for our Cubs.