Gulledge
Elementary School
Administration
Principal
Denise Bleggi
I’ve been part of the Gulledge community for many years as a teacher, assistant principal and principal, and I feel deeply connected to our staff, students, and families. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, including my husband, our daughter and son-in-law, and our sweet poodle. I also love being outdoors, traveling, and staying active with Pure Barre workouts, and enjoying restaurant quality cuisine that my amazing husband cooks. Most of all, I adore making precious memories and appreciating the exceptional experiences my life is richly filled with.
My deep connection to the Gulledge community fills me with gratitude to serve our staff, students, and families. I am honored to serve as principal at Gulledge Elementary, where I have the privilege of giving back to the district that shaped me as a student. My roots in Plano run deep, and I believe strongly in the power of public education to change lives. I am especially passionate about fostering meaningful family engagement and advocating for the value of strong public schools. At Gulledge, I’m committed to building a warm, inclusive environment where every child is known, supported, and inspired to thrive.
Assistant Principal
Mrs. Tara Welch
This is my 28th year in education, and I still love what I do. I’m happily married with two wonderful children. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, shopping, and volunteering through the National Charity League.
I feel incredibly fortunate to serve as the Assistant Principal at Gulledge Elementary. Now in my third year at this amazing school, I truly couldn’t imagine a better place to be. I’m excited to welcome our new families and continue building strong connections with those I’ve already had the pleasure of working with. Gulledge is, without a doubt, my favorite school I’ve had the privilege to be part of.
Assistant Principal Intern
Mrs. Iliana Alvarado-Diaz
I began my career in education 16 years ago in a neighboring district, teaching multiple grade levels and subjects before serving as an Assistant Principal for five years. After a brief break, I am grateful to have joined a campus with a strong sense of community where students always come first.
I am a proud mother to two daughters: Elaine, a University of North Texas alumna, and Ivana, a University of Texas at Austin graduate who recently married her husband, Brian. My husband, Miguel, and I have been married for 10 years, and we enjoy spending time together and embracing new adventures.
I look forward to learning the Gulledge way and serving our students, staff, and families.