Faculty & Staff Directory

Madeline Nayfa

Assistant Principal

I’m truly honored to join the Hexter family as your new assistant principal. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving in various roles from classroom teacher to instructional coach to math demonstration teacher; all with a focus on supporting teachers, strengthening instruction, and helping students reach their full potential. I’m passionate about creating collaborative, inclusive school cultures where both adults and children feel seen, supported, and empowered. While I bring experience in data-driven planning, campus turnaround, and instructional leadership, I know the most important part of this work is building strong relationships. I’m here to listen, to learn from you, and to work alongside you as we continue to create a joyful, high-achieving environment for every student at Hexter. I’m excited for the journey ahead and am grateful to be part of this incredible community.-Madeline Nayfa

Melinda Smith

Principal

Welcome to the 2025–26 School Year! I am thrilled to begin my fourth year as the proud principal of Hexter Elementary, where we continue to build on a strong foundation and rich traditions that make our school such a special place. This year holds many exciting milestones. We anticipate moving into our brand-new building in January 2026, with the entire bond project scheduled for completion by August 2026. These enhancements represent our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our students. I’m also honored to enter my second year in the Holdsworth Campus Leadership Program, joined by three dedicated colleagues from Hexter. Together, we are deeply focused on improving math achievement through a carefully crafted “problem of practice.” Guided by current research, we will implement high-impact instructional strategies to help every student succeed. For our new Hawk families, I’d like to share a bit about myself. I am a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and proud grandmother. Originally from Southern California, my husband and I relocated to the Dallas area four years ago to be closer to family and pursue new opportunities. We’ve found our forever home here and are deeply rooted in this wonderful community. Over the past 30 years, I’ve served in a variety of roles in education—teacher, PTA president, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal. Each experience has shaped my leadership and reinforced my passion for education. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from UCLA and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from California State University, Fullerton. I believe in the power of relationships and the importance of fostering a school community where all stakeholders—students, families, and staff—can thrive. As an instructional leader, I am highly visible and committed to cultivating a culture of student agency. I want our students to be confident readers, writers, and critical thinkers. I work to build staff capacity to support that vision and lead by modeling the core values I hold dear: integrity, respect, dedication, resilience, and kindness. Each day is a new opportunity to make a difference. I look forward to getting to know you and working together to continue making Hexter a school we’re all proud to call home. Go Hawks! Warmly, Mindy (Melinda) Smith Principal, Hexter Elementary

Ryan Bott

Erin Brinkman

School Counselor

Yasmeen Youngblood

Library Media Specialist

Faith Brown-Caldwell

Nurse

Carmen Chavez

CRC

Marissa Perez

Parent Specialist

Amanda Rodriguez

Office Manager