Cristina Benavides is a native El Pasoan. She holds a bachelors degree in business management and marketing from UTEP, but in 1994, her passion for teaching led her to pursue an Alternative Certification in Education followed by a Master Reading Teacher in Education (Grades EC-12). In 2001 she received a Masters of Education as Instructional Site Specialist with an Emphasis in Dual Language, and in 2009 she obtained a certification in Administration and Principalship for early childhood education through grade twelve.

Armed with a deep understanding of research-based curricula and a commitment to excellence, Cris began her career in academia as a classroom teacher at Rusk Elementary. Her tenure as a school Administrator began as Assistant Principal of Polk and Schuster Elementary, and later she served as Principal at Western Hills Elementary for eight years prior to retiring from EPISD and joining The Cherry Hill School.

Cris’s commitment to equity and inclusion is at the heart of her educational philosophy and she works to create a school culture that celebrates diversity and ensures that every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

Cris understands the importance of collaboration and community engagement in driving educational excellence. Through strategic partnerships with parents, teachers, and community stakeholders, Cris strives to foster a culture of trust and collaboration as the foundation for school success.

On a personal note, Cris has been married for 43 years, has two daughters, five grandchildren, three dogs and cares for her 98-year-old mother.