Dalen Kirchner, Principal

It is an honor to serve the community as Principal of Fredericksburg Middle School. I joined FISD in 2008 as Assistant Principal at FMS and am excited to be back on this campus!
Before finding my way into public education, I graduated from Texas A&M University and worked with the MLB Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan to establish a new beef program. After several years in business, I had a calling to help young people succeed in life, so I earned a Master’s degree from Sam Houston State University in Educational Leadership. My first experience as an educator was with Northside ISD in San Antonio, teaching and coaching H.S. students. Next, I became Assistant Principal north of San Antonio in Comal ISD.
In 2008, my family and I decided to move close to the family ranch in Fredericksburg where I served for 10 years as FMS Assistant Principal and most recently I held the position of Gillespie County High School Principal and acted as the District Coordinator for Safety, Health, and the Discipline Alternative Educational Program.
I am honored to serve the students, staff, parents, and a community full of wonderful people. My team and I are driven to support the staff and students to find a healthy balance of learning, character building, and fun. I am community minded and believe in integrating community organizations, veterans, and volunteers to partner in our school to help shape our future leaders.
Although I like giving my time to others, in my personal time I enjoy hanging out with my wife and two kids, hunting, and raising livestock on the family ranch.
Karen Nevins, Assistant Principal

Serves students with the last names M-Z.
My name is Karen Nevins, and I am honored to serve this year as FMS Assistant Principal.
I’ve been part of Fredericksburg ISD for over 15 years—as a teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal at the elementary level. I’m passionate about building strong school communities where teachers are empowered to nurture, challenge, and inspire students and families are true partners in the learning journey.
As a proud military kid, I’ve lived in places like Colorado, Virginia, North Carolina, and New Mexico—but Texas has my heart and is definitely home! Outside of school, my focus is on my faith and my family. I can usually be found enjoying the outdoors, being crafty, relaxing with a good book, or cheering on my alma mater, the Texas Longhorns!
My husband Chris and I have four amazing kids—Brooke (newly married to Mason!), Claire, and Reid—plus our sweet pup Pippa, and a crew of mini donkeys, goats, and cattle. I’m so excited to be part of the FMS family and look forward to a great year with our amazing Billies.
Kassi Mehler, Assistant Principal

Serves students with the last names A-L.
Hello and Welcome to FMS! It is privilege to serve the great community of Fredericksburg as Assistant Principal of Fredericksburg Middle School. I joined FISD and FMS in August of 2023 and am excited to back from another great year!
I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Angelo State University in 2001 and then received my master’s degree in library science from Texas Woman’s University in 2003. I have had the privilege of being a public-school educator for over 20 years. I previously served as a second-grade teacher, language acquisition specialist, and assistant principal. All these roles have allowed me to pursue my passion and drive of changing lives. I aspire to establish a culture and environment that is geared for student learning and growth.
I am happily married to my husband Kevin, and we have two amazing children, Bentley and Bayley. When not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, and enjoying a good book.
I am truly honored and blessed to serve the students and families of Fredericksburg and help lead FMS into another amazing year. GO BILLIES!!
Mindy Lay, Counselor (A-L)

Serves students with the last names A-L.
Hello! I'm excited to join the FMS counseling team this year. I was born and raised right here in Fredericksburg, and what an honor it is to be back HOME!
I received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees from Angelo State University and have been in education for 15 years. This is my 8th year as a School Counselor.
I'm looking forward to a great year!
Rebecca Geletka, Counselor (M-Z)

Serves students with the last names M-Z.
I am excited to be part of the counseling at FMS this year! I will service Alpha L-Z this year. I have been a school counselor for over 10 years, if you need anything, let me know!
Yazmin Ramirez, Registrar and Counselors Assistant

Hello, my name is Yazmin Ramirez. I graduated from FHS in 2005. I am bilingual and I'm very excited to be the Registrar at FMS.
I married my high school sweetheart, Danny, and we have 3 wonderful children together. As a family, we love sports & outdoor activities.
I look forward to working with you. Please feel free to contact me at by phone 830-990-0105
