Our Team

Mrs. Tejeda serves as a Special Education teacher at IDEA Sports Park College Preparatory and as a RGV Special Education Course Leader. In her years of experience as a teacher, she has developed expertise in supporting students in both the general and special education settings, developing and presenting special education professional development opportunities for teachers, and supporting with the roles of managing teachers and co-teachers from both: the special education and the R.I.S.E. departments. She is passionate about the topics of Neurodiversity, Inclusion, and Philanthropy and Anye supports with the organization of our Ambassadors Program and will also lead our summer programs to keep our children active and healthy. Mrs. Tejeda adheres to the belief that every child with special needs deserves a nurturing and inclusive living experience that empowers them to reach their full potential regardless of their exceptionality, diversity and/or socioeconomic status.

Bio

Phillip teaches at the University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley. He has his Ph.D. in Adapted Physical Activity, Statistics, & Infant & Family Intervention from the University of Virginia, ME in Adapted Physical Activity, Exercise Science, and Sports Administration from Texas Tech University, and BS in Physical Education and Mathematics from West Texas A&M University. Most of his hands-on experience is with students who have disabilities in the school system ages 3-21, as a teacher and/or supervisor. Last 18 year working closely with Down By The Bord.

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Hello, my name is Monika Mata, and I have been a proud board member of Down by the Border for 8 years. I love to serve my community, and I am also a board member with Children's Advocacy Centers of Cameron and Willacy Counties. I earned my Bachelors degree in 2007 from UTPA in rehabilitative services with a concentration in addiction studies. In 2020, I earned my Master's degree in special education. I have been a special education teacher, coach, and Special Olympics coach for 17 years with B.I.S.D. Our organization has proudly hosted Night to Shine Prom sponsored by Tim Tebow, which provides an inclusive environment for all. May God bless and guard each and every one of you, and I look forward to meeting and working with you all.

Bio.