Meet Our Administrative Team

Principal Amber Barbarow            [email protected]    832-223-4800
Assistant Principal Nkiruka Nnadi [email protected] 832-223-4804
Secretary Julie Chapa [email protected] 832-223-4803
Receptionist Maggie Polendo [email protected] 832-223-4800
Counselor Melissa Schmidt [email protected] 832-223-4805
Nurse Carmen Lara [email protected] 832-223-4806
ARD Specialist Elizabeth Binnicker [email protected] 832-223-4810
Speech Therapist LaTonya Ventures [email protected] 832-223-4886

Amber Barbarow, Principal

I always knew that I wanted to work with children.  Having a passion to make a difference, I began a career in child psychology and later switched to education. I have grown up in the area and graduated from Terry High School.  It has given me a great sense of belonging to this community to now be back to serve the students attending LCISD now. 
I have been in education over 20 years now and have proudly served Arredondo as principal since it opened in 2015. Prior to opening AES, I was the principal at H.F. McNeill Elementary for five years.  I was also the assistant principal at McNeill and Austin Elementary both here in LCISD.  In addition, I have been an instructional coach and a teacher at Pink Elementary.  
My philosophy on education stems from my background in psychology as well as my experience at multiple schools.  I believe that all children can and will learn given the right motivation, tools and environment on which to succeed.  I challenge my students to reach their fullest potential, to take risks, and to be innovative in their own learning.  I absolutely love learning and growing as an educator and person and will continue to inspire those around me to have a thirst for knowlege.  My goal is to instill a passion for learning that drives my students to be life-long learners.  
I want you to know that family is extremely important to me. I have one daughter, Alex, and two granddaughters, Everleigh and Eloise, who call me "Mimi."  They are the most important people in the world to me. I know the value I put in those that take care of my loved ones.  I look forward to serving you and getting to know your family.
Welcome to JagNation!!! 

Nkiruka Nnadi, Assistant Principal

My journey in education began in 2003, passionate about shaping future generations and preparing students for success in an ever-changing world fueled by a desire to empower students through tailored learning experiences.

I have served as a Teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal and Principal. As a dedicated educator with a passion for data-driven instruction and instructional leadership, I have consistently achieved significant improvements in student achievement across various roles in education.

I bring a comprehensive understanding of educational management and operational efficiency to my current role where I intend to lead strategic initiatives and effective teacher development.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I enjoy enriching my knowledge through audiobooks, indulging in binge-worthy shows, exploring new destinations through travel, and occasionally indulging in retail therapy.

Married with a focus on family, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to expand our household in the future.

barbarow amber_pp Professional Headshot
Garcia Headshot