I am a proud first-generation American, the daughter of Mexican immigrant parents who are now U.S. citizens. I am the oldest of three children and grew up speaking Spanish as my first language, only learning English when I started first grade. Although my story began in McAllen, Texas, I’ve called the Harlandale community home since 1993 — now having lived here longer than in my hometown.

In my forties, while my children were in elementary school, I returned to college and enrolled in the Adult Completion Program (AdCap) at the University of the Incarnate Word to complete my degree.

I spent 21 years serving Bexar County as the Court Coordinator for County Courts at Law No. 3 and No. 10, retiring in August 2020. But retirement didn’t last long. I continued my career as Program Manager for the Bexar County Family Violence Prevention Program from April 2021 to September 2023. Today, I serve as Legal Assistant to Sylvia M. Cardona, Equity Partner at RPSA Law Firm.

My husband, Art, and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary last September. We are the proud parents of two children. Our son, Julian, graduated from UTSA in May 2024 and is now the owner of Brewjeria Coffee, located in the heart of Harlandale ISD. Our daughter, Anel, is a junior at Texas State University, treasurer of the Bobcat Belles, and is pursuing a degree in Sports Management with a concentration in Athletic Training. She plans to graduate in May 2026 and pursue a master’s degree to become a physician assistant.

I have proudly served on the Harlandale ISD Board of Trustees since August 2019

I am also an active member in the following organizations:

Pan American League of San Antonio
Women Unlimited!
Precinct Chair for Bexar County Precinct 1054 (elected position)
Board member for the Texas State University Student and Family Affairs Council

Three quotes that inspire me:

“I raise up my voice — not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard… we cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.” — Malala Yousafzai

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

“When you walk into a room, let them know you have arrived. Be professional, be firm, be a lady, be kind, but never let them forget you mean business” — Humberto Perez (my dad).

Contact: norma.cavazos@myhisd.net

Harlandale Independent School District