Christina Cortez, Hudson High School

Position: Spanish Teacher

Years Teaching: 13 years

Hobbies/Interests: In my free time I enjoy reading, music, spending time with my family and friends, exploring new cultures through international travel, and volunteering in my community.

What do you enjoy most about teaching? As a passionate educator, I thoroughly enjoy sharing my love for the Spanish language and culture with my students. I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel connected and valued, and by the end of the year, our class becomes like a close-knit family. It's a privilege to have the opportunity to work with students for multiple years, allowing me to develop meaningful relationships with them. Along my teaching journey, I have been blessed to collaborate with exceptional educators who have enriched my teaching practice. I also take pride in supporting new and aspiring teachers by opening my classroom to them. Teaching provides me with a creative outlet to share my passions and inspire students to embrace learning. It's a joy and an honor to be able to make a positive impact in the lives of my students.

What do you find the most challenging about teaching? Teaching is a challenging and dynamic profession that requires constant adaptation. As a dedicated teacher, I pour my heart into my work daily. However, as a natural giver, it can be challenging to remember to prioritize self-care and use my free time to recharge, so I can consistently bring my best to the classroom.

Best tip for new teachers: Embrace experimentation and risk-taking in your teaching. Use your creativity to create amazing learning experiences. Seek support from mentors and fellow educators. Embracing new approaches enhances your teaching and benefits your students.

Best tip for career teachers: Be open to new ideas and approaches, and never stop seeking opportunities to grow professionally. Enjoy every moment of your teaching journey, and always keep a positive attitude with a smile on your face. Teaching is a rewarding and dynamic profession, and your passion and dedication will make a positive impact on your students and their learning journey.

Favorite piece of advice for students: Dream big, set goals, and care for others. Kind words and actions can have a profound impact. Be an inspiration and spread kindness, creating a ripple effect. Embrace the opportunity to make a difference in the world.

What being a Gold Star Teacher means to you: Being recognized as a Gold Star Teacher is a truly humbling honor that fills me with gratitude. It serves as a reminder that my gifts and abilities as an educator are blessings from God, and He deserves the honor. It reaffirms that my efforts in the classroom are making a positive impact on my students and aligning with my sense of purpose as an educator. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as a teacher, and to be a positive light that inspires and impacts the next generation.