About me

Hello! My name is Preston Ponder, and I’m thrilled to be your Theatre Arts Teacher this year at the Texas School for the Deaf. I’ll be working with students in grades 6–12, and we’ll explore acting, stagecraft, storytelling, and all the creative magic that brings theatre to life.

I have a lifelong passion for the arts and have been fortunate to direct, design, and supervise stage productions at schools including the Texas School for the Deaf, Gallaudet University, and others. My performance work spans both stage and screen, with credits in films such as Dr. Hand, Deaf Family, and Beyond the Embers, as well as theatrical productions like The Boys Next Door, Lysistrata, and Goya en la Quinta del Sordo — for which I was honored with the Outstanding Contribution in Performance Award.

Beyond the stage, I have extensive experience in academics, student life, and athletics. Over the years, I’ve coached football, basketball, wrestling, and track, and served in various roles at several Deaf schools. No matter the setting, my goal has always been to help students build self-esteem, develop teamwork, and grow both personally and creatively.

For me, theatre isn’t just about performing under the spotlight — it’s about building confidence, learning to collaborate, and discovering your unique talents. I can’t wait to get to know you, see your creativity shine, and make this a year filled with memorable performances!