LifeChanger of the Year Profile | National Life Group

Alejandro Olvera was nominated by a colleague who wishes to remain anonymous.

Mr. Olvera arrived at Ernesto Serna School three years ago, at a time when STAAR scores were low, as well as teacher and student morale. If there were any dances offered by the school, student participation was low, and those who attended would not dance. Most students used school dances as an excuse to get out class.

Like a ray of sunshine, Mr. Olvera came in and brought the positive attitude that was so desperately needed at Ernesto Serna School.

"His work ethic is about being a better person; a better person to make it a better work environment," the nominator said. "A better person to lead the teachers and a better person for the parents."

Initially, some teachers were not used to Mr. Olvera's positive attitude and were hesitant to comply.

"Teachers who didn't like his attitude transferred to another campus, but those of us who stayed can see the positive difference he has made," the nominator said.

Students now enjoy going to school and have a positive attitude about life and the importance of school. Teachers greet each other in the morning with a smile on their face. During school dances, the students now dance, laugh, and have a wonderful time with their peers.

"Mr. Olvera is a humble individual who will never take credit for the difference he has made on campus," the nominator said. "But I am here to tell you that he has. He has high expectations, not only of the teachers, but of the students as well. He is committed to making Ernesto Serna a better school for everyone who steps foot inside."

"Our campus has made great strides during his administration, but we have so many other aspirations to achieve. With Mr. Olvera's leadership and perseverance, I truly believe Ernesto Serna School will achieve many goals. He is dedicated to making our campus a wonderful, welcoming, and strong environment for those who arrive."

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Lizbeth Rios Posted over a year ago

Mr. Olvera is indeed so deserving of this nomination. His positive attitude and disposition has changed the atmosphere at Ernesto Serna. From the start, he believed in his faculty and knew we could make strides and improve the overall performance of our students. His leadership skills and empowering mindset has been a life changer not only for students, but for the faculty and staff of this middle school. He is visible, approachable, caring and supportive. Most importantly, he truly cares about his students, school and the community. We are grateful for his kindness and all the ways he makes us feel special.

Anabel Cervantes Posted over a year ago

Mr Olvera is a great leader with high expectations, always supporting students and creating a good environment for students success.

Unkown Posted over a year ago

Being a student at Ernesto Serna and being able to go to school with a smile on my face, because I know that I feel safe in school. I don't know any principle that has such a positive attitude as him. This is my last year that I will get to have Mr. Olvera as a principle

Lily Beltran Posted over a year ago

As a parent, I believe that Mr Olvera is a great person, humble, caring and very supportive with the students and parents. Well deserve.

Michelle Gandara Posted over a year ago

Mr. Olvera has indeed made a significant, profound, and enduring change at Ernesto Serna School. Under his leadership, he has inspired positive change and a culture of high expectations. We are forever grateful for his presence and commitment to our school and community.

Kristel Cruncleton Posted over a year ago

I have been honored to serve as a teacher under Mr. Olvera. His leadership encourages all around him to become better or at least strive to be the best they can achieve. The culture on campus has evolved from a culture of defeat and an acceptance of failure, to an environment of positive action and expectation of success. Mr. Olvera's insistence on plans for change instead of excuses for falling short is a prime example of how he has lead the way for Serna to become a successful campus in the community as well as educationally. He gives all credit to us the faculty and staff, however without his leadership and guidance we would not be on the path to greatness.

LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile