Early Childhood Teachers

Mrs. Velez was born and raised in Mexico City, where she attended a trilingual Catholic school that helped shape her passion for education. She holds two bachelor’s degrees—one in Sciences of Education and the other in Preschool Education—and brings 19 years of experience in early childhood education to her role.

In 2021, Mrs. Velez moved to San Francisco with her husband, and after two years on the West Coast, they relocated to Austin. She now serves as a dedicated teacher at St. Theresa Catholic School, where she deeply values the integration of faith and academics. She believes this nurturing environment supports both spiritual growth and intellectual curiosity, helping students develop into compassionate and well-rounded individuals.

Outside the classroom, Mrs. Velez enjoys traveling and reading. She is committed to inspiring creativity and curiosity in every child she teaches, fostering a love of learning from the very beginning.

Mrs. Cassie Vela is proud to be a part of the St. Theresa Catholic School community and will be starting her 3rd year as a STCS Early Childhood teacher. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas.

Mrs. Vela brings a vibrant enthusiasm and a deep love for early childhood education. She has a true passion for working with our youngest learners and is committed to creating a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and inspired to grow. With a positive attitude and hands-on experience working with children, she is excited to build a joyful and nurturing learning community that encourages exploration, creativity, and faith.

Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Vela enjoys spending time with her husband and their two sons who attend STCS. Her hobbies include watching and playing sports, cooking, traveling, listening to music, and enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Mrs. Klopp is currently our First Grade Class Assistant and has been hired as our new PK4 teacher for the upcoming school year. She holds a degree in Bilingual Education and a Master’s in Education from Texas A&M University.

She is thrilled to be teaching in such a warm and welcoming environment and is dedicated to supporting her students’ learning journeys. With a passion for education and a heart for young learners, she looks forward to growing alongside her students and helping them thrive each day.

Mrs. Klopp has one son attending STCS and his little brother will join us in the Fall.  Apart from teaching, my hobbies include learning Italian, reading books about education, and enjoying breakfast tacos with my family around Austin!