Directors
Valerie Hernandez
Valerie Hernandez
WAIS Director
valerie.hernandez@springbranchisd.com
Dr. Hernandez has served 30 years in public education, including 16 years in Spring Branch ISD. Before the WAIS appointment, she served as a principal at Bunker Hill Elementary School Principal for 10 years.
Earlier in her career, Director Hernandez worked as an assistant principal at a junior high and elementary school in San Marcos Consolidated ISD. She has also been a counselor and teacher at the elementary and middle school levels in Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD.
Her education qualifications are many. She earned a bachelor of arts in education and a master of education in counseling from Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. She has also earned a doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of Houston.
“Westchester Academy for International Studies is a very special place with a unique culture, a great history, and a regional and national reputation for excellence,” she said. “I embrace opportunities to do things differently while honoring traditions and values held by the community. I commit to bringing this spirit and dedication to the staff and students at WAIS.”
Jesse Tachiquin
Jesse Tachiquin
WAIS Middle School Assistant Director
jesus.tachiquin@springbranchisd.com
Mr. Tachiquin began at WAIS during the 2018-2019 school year. Before being appointed the middle school director in 2022, he worked as a health fitness teacher and Diploma Programme coordinator. Mr. Tachiquin served as an elementary and middle school physical education teacher in Denver, CO and Cheyenne, WY before moving to Houston.
Alison Butler
Alison Butler
WAIS High School Assistant Director
alison.butler@springbranchisd.com
Ms. Butler has been and educator for 31 years, with 22 dedicated years in Spring Branch ISD. With experience at all education levels, she has served as an Elementary and High School teacher, Middle School and High School Counselor and Assistant Principal. Most recently Ms. Butler served as the Associate Principal at Northbrook High School prior to being appointed to the High School Director role at Westchester Academy.