Administration
Principal
Ashley Gabbard, M.Ed.
Ashley Gabbard has been serving as Principal of Marvin Biomedical Academy since 2025. She began her career in education in 2012 as a paraprofessional before teaching elementary students in both Texas and Florida. Prior to joining Marvin, she served as Assistant Principal at Felty Elementary.
Ashley is passionate about building strong relationships, supporting teachers, and creating a school culture where every student feels seen, challenged, and inspired to grow. She believes that every child can succeed when high expectations are paired with meaningful support, and she is committed to helping Marvin Biomedical Academy continue to grow as a place where students love to learn and families feel connected.
Ashley graduated from Copperas Cove High School in 2008. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Florida State College at Jacksonville in 2014, followed by a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Sam Houston State University in 2016. In 2021, she earned a second Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Texas.
Outside of school, Ashley enjoys spending time with her husband and their four children. She also enjoys reading, finding creative ways to engage students, and cheering on her children at their activities.
I believe the best schools are built on strong relationships, high expectations, and a whole lot of HEART. At Marvin Biomedical Academy, we're challenging students to think bigger, dream bigger, and grow every single day. I am so excited about where we're headed, and I can't wait to continue Leveling Up with our students, staff, and families as we build something truly special together!
Ashley Gabbard
🎓 Undergraduate degree, Early Childhood Education, Florida State College at Jacksonville
🎓 Graduate degree, Curriculum & Instruction, Sam Houston State
🎓 Graduate degree, Educational Leadership, University of North Texas
☎️ (972) 923-4670
Assistant Principal
Melissa Tovar
Mrs. Melissa Tovar has dedicated her career to education since 2004, serving students and families in a variety of elementary grade levels. Her classroom experience includes teaching kindergarten and third grade as a monolingual teacher, as well as first, second, and fourth grade in dual language programs. She also brings four years of experience as an assistant principal.
Throughout her career, Mrs. Tovar has demonstrated a strong commitment to student achievement, teacher support, and family engagement. Her extensive educational experience and passion for serving others have prepared her well for leadership. She is dedicated to fostering a positive school culture where every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
Mrs. Tovar’s passion for supporting students, empowering teachers, and building meaningful relationships makes her an excellent addition to the Marvin family. She is committed to creating an environment where all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Originally from El Paso, Texas, Mrs. Tovar now proudly calls Waxahachie home. She and her husband, Jesse, are the proud parents of two children, Edson and Lila.
🎓 Undergraduate degree, Southwestern Assemblies of God University
🎓 Graduate degree, Texas A&M University at Commerce
☎️ (972) 923-4670