Plano ISD Theatre Teacher Earns Statewide Spotlight

Alex Rodriguez, a theatre director in Plano ISD, was recognized by the Texas Educational Theatre Association (TxETA) as this month’s K-12 Educator Spotlight, highlighting his contributions to theatre education across North Texas.

“Congratulations on being selected as the TxETA K-12 Educator Spotlight,” TxETA wrote in its announcement, adding, “All best wishes for the school year!”

State Recognition For Local Educator

Rodriguez, who joined Plano ISD in 2023, said being selected was a career honor. “I am so honored to be recognized by my peers in the organization that I truly love and support,” he told TxETA when notified of the award. The recognition places him among a select group of educators celebrated by the association for their commitment to fine arts.

Plano ISD shared the news on social media, writing, “We’re #PlanoISDProud of our amazing fine arts teachers who are recognized at the state level! Congratulations, Mr. Rodriguez!”

A Career In Theatre Education

Rodriguez will begin his 14th year of teaching in the 2025-26 school year. Before arriving in Plano, he held leadership roles across North Texas:

• Head Director for the Kaufman Theatre Company at Kaufman High School (2022)
   
• Head Director at Lewisville High School (2018–2022)
   
• Associate Theatre Director at Marcus High School (2015–2018)
   
• Assistant Director at John H. Guyer High School (2012–2015)

Over his career, Rodriguez has guided students to high levels of success, including a second-place finish at the UIL One Act Play 4A State Competition, multiple UIL One Act Play region qualifications, and recognition in UIL Poetry and Prose at both regional and state levels. He has also presented productions at the State Thespian Main Stage and Play Marathon stages.

Building Theatre Communities

For Rodriguez, theatre education is about more than productions and awards. “Providing a safe space for ALL of my students to create, discover, animate and express themselves has always been my passion,” he said in an official statement shared by TxETA. “My favorite part about theatre is that it requires you to break down all of your barriers, truly discover yourself and come out a stronger, more confident version of you.”

According to the official statement, Rodriguez has been instrumental in building the Wolfpack Theatre Company at Plano West. Working alongside student leaders and his directing team, he has helped establish what he calls a “positive, supportive and safe space” for students to grow. “Watching them create wonderful theatre and long-lasting relationships has been one of the best experiences in my 14 years of teaching,” he said.

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