Hello! My name is Raquel Ardoin, and I’m proud to serve as the AVID teacher and coordinator here at Elkins High School. Born and raised right here in the Houston area, I’m honored to pour back into the community that raised me. I’m entering my eighth year in education and have been fortunate to spend my entire teaching career at "The Castle."

I graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio (Go Runners!) with a bachelor's degree in Multidisciplinary Studies, focusing on Sociology, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Film Studies. A lifelong learner myself, I became a teacher because I’ve always found joy in learning and wanted to help students discover that same excitement, especially as they prepare for their futures. I currently sponsor the Black Student Union, a role I’ve held for the past two years. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside students as they work hard, break generational cycles, and pursue their passions through college and career pathways.

In our AVID classroom, our motto is: “What you don’t do now, you will do later, and later is always harder than right now.” My mission is to help students harness the power of today to create the lives they want tomorrow. Students can expect high engagement, open dialogue, and a lot of support. They won’t always get things right the first time, but I’ll be there to guide them through the process as they grow into our future leaders.