Meet The Staff
Photos by Moore Moments Photography

Athletic Director, Head Football Coach, CTE Facilitator
Keegan Clark
Background/Educational Experience: Attended McMurry University
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
This is an opportunity to bring change and a new culture that will go against the norms of our educational system and community
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Fun Fact About Me:
It's not too often that you see a coach coming from the youth arena chosen to bring change and drastically affect a culture.
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Email: kclark@pathwayhc.org
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Director of Academics & Counseling, Cheer Coach
Alisha Daniel
Background/Educational Experience: A
I bring over twelve years of experience in education, working with students from elementary through high school. My journey has included serving as a classroom teacher, ISS teacher, and counselor, as well as taking on leadership roles as a campus 504 Coordinator and Testing Coordinator. In each role, my focus has been on supporting students’ academic growth, emotional well-being, and overall success.
I earned my Associate’s Degree in Software Business Accounting from Texas State Technical College, my Bachelor’s Degree in Management from Wayland Baptist University, and my Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Angelo State University. I am currently pursuing my Doctorate in Educational Leadership, specializing in Educational Technology Innovations.
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I am passionate about helping students discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential—both inside and outside the classroom.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I was inspired to join Pathway Academy because I strongly believe in its mission and know that our community deserves to have another option for education. I believe in creating a personalized, supportive learning environment where every student can thrive. Pathway’s commitment to small class sizes, mastery learning, and real-world connections aligns perfectly with my values as an educator. This is a place where I can help students not only achieve academically, but also grow in confidence, character, and life skills.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I’m a Certified Nursing Assistant and often spend my weekends helping at local nursing homes. I also enjoy running and taking on home renovation projects in my spare time.​
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Email: adaniel@pathwayhc.org​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

High School ELAR Teacher
Mr. Gabriel Dolla
Background/Educational Experience:
Andhra University; English and Foreign Languages University for my Masters in 1. English Literature and Language. 2. Education. 3. Teaching English Language. and 4. Functional English.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
Mr. Thaddeus McCalister was my Asst Principal in Odessa high School and he brought me here
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Fun Fact About Me:
​I have worked and visited 10 different countries and delivered regular and guest lectures in different universities, colleges and schools ranging from High School to University covering a wide range of curricula including IB.
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​​​Email: gdolla@pathwayhc.org
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Community Liaison
Adrienne Green
Background/Educational Experience:
I graduated from Angelo State University with a B.S. of Kinesiology w/ Athletic Training Option, with an English minor. I also have 8 years of experience in news broadcasting.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
Students learn differently. I'm excited that this is an alternative for them to reach educational goals and get real life experience along the way.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I love stand-up comedy.
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Email: agreen@pathwayhc.org
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AVID Teacher / Volleyball Coach
Jennifer Hart
Background/Educational Experience:
​WGU and worked at DAEP for four years.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I believe in these students. They can do anything they put their minds to.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I love to read books in my free time​
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Email: jhart@pathwayhc.org
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Curriculum Coach and Dyslexia Therapist
Raela James
Background/Educational Experience: I have a Masters in Reading and Curriculum from Grand Canyon University and Bachelors degree in Child and Family studies and teaching certification from UTPB. I have been in the education system for 27 years. I have taught Kindergarten, 2nd grade, and 3rd grade. The last 10 years I have been a Dyslexia Therapist.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I love the vision of Pathway and the way they plan to teach our students to become responsible for their learning while also having the opportunity for real world experiences through internships.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I love to spend my spare time with my horse Daisy Mae.
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Email: rjames@pathwayhc.org
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Resident Principal
Brittany Jourdan
Background/Educational Experience: I’m a proud native of Louisiana and a graduate of Nicholls State University. My educational journey has taken me from the classroom as a reading interventionist and teacher, to leadership roles as a department chair, instructional coach, and most recently, Assistant Principal focused on student culture and academic excellence. My passion lies in helping students succeed by building strong relationships, setting high expectations, and creating school environments that feel like a safe place to take risks, learn from mistakes, and grow into the best version of themselves.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I was drawn to Pathway Academy because of its clear commitment to equity, student empowerment, and community impact. Pathway serves students who deserve access to high-quality education and strong role models, and I wanted to be part of a team that uplifts every child through culturally responsive practices and high expectations. The mission to cultivate not only academic success but also character and leadership aligns deeply with my purpose as an educator and leader. From the moment I learned about Pathway, I knew it was the kind of place where I could bring my full self and make a lasting difference.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I’ve been known to give motivational speeches in the hallway, carry snacks for students and staff, and break into dance when the vibes are right. I believe joy is a leadership skill, and I use it daily.
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Email: bjourdan@pathwayhc.org
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7-9 Humanities Teacher
Ms. Theresa Manderski
Background/Educational Experience: Southern New Hampshire University - BA English - Concentration in Creative Writing in English - Prior to education I was in finance and served in senior leadership roles that allowed me to mentor and train others across all levels of the organization. Most recently I served as an ELA 1st grade teacher at Marcy Elementary
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I believe in the power of dreams. The dreams our students have of the future. Fostering those dreams through collaborative education to create individuals that are excited and prepared to be part of the community and achieve their dreams. I choose Pathway because I believe they are setting the foundations for students to become global students ready for college, careers, and life.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I love to travel, meet new people, try new foods, and see different cultures in action.
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Email: tmanderski@pathwayhc.org
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Operations Assistant & Coach
Darius McCalister
Background/Educational Experience: Went to Big Spring High & attended Odessa College for sometime
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
Wanted to be apart of something bigger than myself.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I love dad jokes!
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Email: dmccalister@pathwayhc.org
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Founder / Superintendent
Dr. Thaddeus McCalister
Background/Educational Experience: Doctorate Lamar University, bachelor’s and masters at Eastern New Mexico University
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
The chance to create an educations that students need now. Students today need to feel loved, engaged, and valued.
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Fun Fact About Me:
Nothing at this time
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Email: tmccalister@pathwayhc.org

Teacher Apprentice
Veronica Modisette
Background/Educational Experience: Special Education / Life Skills and Behavior for 2 years with C.D. Fulkes Middle School, Round Rock, TX
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
The positiveness everywhere and a better school for Academic learning for my daughter.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I DJ Tejano still going strong after 24 years. I started when I was 17.
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Email: vmodisette@pathwayhc.org
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Chief Operations Officer
Tommy Moore
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Background/Educational Experience: I graduated from Big Spring High School and went on to own and operate my own business for 17 years. That experience has given me valuable insight that I can now use to support and mentor students, especially those who may be interested in entrepreneurship or pursuing a career in business.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
What drew me to Pathway Academy is my deep-rooted connection to the Big Spring community, having grown up here. I wholeheartedly believe in the school’s mission and vision, and I’m committed to supporting the positive impact Pathway is making in the lives of students and families in our area.
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Fun Fact About Me:
Something interesting about me is that I love movies and enjoy diving into the research behind the inspiration for the films I enjoy. I believe film is an incredible medium for art and expression, and I’m always fascinated by the stories, history, and creativity that go into making them.
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Email: tmoore@pathwayhc.org ​​​​​​​​​​​

Math Teacher & Coach
Zephaniah Nelson
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Background/Educational Experience: Big Spring High School, University of Texas Permian Basin, and Sul Ross State University.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I was drawn to work at Pathway Academy because of its strong commitment to student growth, both academically and personally. I appreciated the school’s focus on creating a supportive, structured environment where students are not only challenged to excel but also encouraged to develop character and life skills. The opportunity to be part of a team that genuinely invests in students futures made this the right place for me.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I enjoy fishing.
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Email: znelson@pathwayhc.org
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Teacher's Aide & Assistant Cheer Coach
Hannah Peckenpaugh
Background/Educational Experience: I graduated with my Associates Degree from Howard College. I went to school for my bachelors at UTA in organizational communication. I did not finish but I do have current plans to go back and finish.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I was drawn to this academy because of its strong focus on supporting students’ growth and creating a positive, community-centered learning environment.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I've studied abroad in Japan for a summer.
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Email: hpeckenpaugh@pathwayhc.org
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7th Grade Art Teacher / 8th & 9th Spanish Teacher
Jeanie Quintero
Background/Educational Experience: I received my bachelor's at Hardin Simmons University.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I believe Pathway Academy is helping students.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I enjoy running.
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Email: jquintero@pathwayhc.org
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Executive Assistant
Nadine Reyes
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Background/Educational Experience: McKendree University, Bachelor’s in Organizational Communication with emphasis in Human Resources
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
It's a great new opportunity to be a part of young adults' success.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I love to hike and travel around the world.
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Email: nreyes@pathwayhc.org
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9th grade Humanities Teacher
Ms. Mercedes Ruiz
Background/Educational Experience: I went to high school at Big Spring High, attended college at Hardin Simmons University. I have taught at Big Spring High for two years.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
The change in culture it is trying to bring. Pathway is changing the culture by being more positive, and making learning more interesting for the kids versus focusing on a test. Traditional learning students get bored too quick, while Pathway is trying to make it more about the kids. The kids are the future and their learning is important.
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Fun Fact About Me:
I can watch hours of sports videos without getting bored.
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Email: mruiz@pathwayhc.org

STEM Teacher
Madhumuta Samayamanthula
Background/Educational Experience: I have 15 years of experience in teaching Biology in India and Texas. I have Masters in Science from GITAM University, India.
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I was drawn to Pathway Academy by its innovative curriculum, which helps students meaningfully connect their learning to real-world contexts and introduces career orientation from middle school. Additionally, the passion and dedication of the team greatly inspired me to become a part of the academy.
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Fun Fact About Me:
None at this time.
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Email: msamayamanthula@pathwayhc.org
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District Special Education Coordinator
Jennifer Thomas
Background/Educational Experience: I graduated from UTPB in 2003 with a BA in English. I have been in Special Education for 20 years
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
Their mission!! I am excited to work with students in this environment. It will be a culture!!
Fun Fact About Me:
I eat 1-2 Hershey candy bars a day
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Email: jthomas@pathwayhc.org
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District PEIMS & Registrar Coordinator
Ms. Arelle Young
Background/Educational Experience: Graduated Robert E Lee HS in Midland Texas, then attended Midland College for a short period of time
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Why I decided to become a part of the team at Pathway Academy:
I chose Pathway because I truly believe in Dr. Thaddeus' vision, also I wanted to be a part of something great that would make a big impact on my kids futures as well.
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Fun Fact About Me:
My personality causes people to laugh often, and my smile is infectious. I tend to be the life of the party or a ray of sunshine on a dark cloudy day. One of the most caring people
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Email: ayoung@pathwayhc.org
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