At Jimmy Carter Early College High School, or JCECHS, English teacher Maria Villalpando helps students feel comfortable and engaged as they learn. Her classroom walls and ceiling are covered with her students’ accomplished work and growth throughout the school year.
“My role in Jimmy Early College High School is a 10th grade teacher and I enjoy reading in class.” Villalpando said.
Villalpando helps students grow and understand—that they feel heard when they have a difficult time outside of school while also balancing to keep up with college courses . ” I build trust with students by taking a genuine interest in their interest.” she said. ” I want my students at the end of the year to accomplish becoming better writers.”
Students get caught up with different classes, deadlines,daily expectations and remembering what was through during each lecture for upcoming tests, but Villalpando makes her classroom feel lighter, engage students and participate in class. She makes her teaching to be an opportunity for her students.
“I enjoy teaching by doing fun activities and projects with my students, celebrating good life events and UIL competitions — a way for students to take weights off their shoulders,” Villalpando said.
Aside from helping students and making her classroom an environment where students can feel at ease, English teacher Villalpando shares memorable experiences in her first year teaching at JCECHS. “Making new friends on this campus has been very memorable for me,” Villalpando said.
Although she has a busy schedule that she has to keep up with and posting grades on time, she ends up maintaining to keep her life fun and vibrant outside of school. Villalpando spends time with her family especially with her young children.
“I enjoy my time off school with my family and my children as they are pretty young,” Villalpando said.
In school, she can seem quiet, but she lives with her vibrant personality in school and outside of school. Villalpando connects with her students and staff by showing her lively and great communication skills; this brings comfort and warmth to her students and children. Students feel more open and calm when they walk into her classroom.
“When people start getting to know me—and that can be anyone in this school, students or staff— they will notice that I can be very talkative,” Villalpando said.
Students have to keep up with eight classes every day and with after-school activities or meetings, while also having to study for tests or do work when they get home. Villalpando understands and gives her students time to work on their missing work during class so they don’t struggle and build stress. Villalpando wants the best for each student and for them to have a bright future ahead.
“I want students to stay on track and not to fall behind assignments—make sure they manage their time if needed.” Villalpando said.
In Jimmy Carter Early College High School, English teacher Maria Villalpando makes an impact in students to become better people, writers and readers. Her classroom and personality brings a welcome for a step ahead of opportunities, learning and building courage.
