Posted inEducation

Nayelli V. and Jullisa G., proud RedWolves from JCECHS, fulfill their roles as members of the Student Superintendent Round Table, engaging in a collaborative discussion with LJISD Superintendent Dr. Marcy Sorensen on student leadership and education initiatives.

by Ivan Silva

Nayelli V. and Jullisa G., proud RedWolves from JCECHS, fulfill their roles as members of the Student Superintendent Round Table, engaging in a collaborative discussion with LJISD Superintendent Dr. Marcy Sorensen on student leadership and education initiatives.

Posted inEducation

Senior Jaymee Gomez Named UTRGV Luminary Scholar

by Ivan Silva

Jimmy Carter Early College High School senior Jaymee Gomez has been named a UTRGV Luminary Scholar, earning one of the university’s most prestigious scholarships.

The Luminary Scholarship provides full financial support for undergraduate studies at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and may extend to graduate or professional school. It is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to service.

Gomez has excelled in both academics and extracurricular activities. She recently won first place in Digital Video Production at the FBLA State Leadership Conference, showcasing her creativity and technical skills.

Beyond academics, Gomez has served as Colonel of the La Joya High School Jewelettes, shaping her leadership skills and reinforcing her commitment to hard work. Reflecting on her time with the drill team, she described how the experience instilled discipline and lifelong lessons.

“These friendships taught me as much about commitment as the routines did,” Gomez said. “While being a professional dancer isn’t what I will pursue in the future, it’s through being a part of this organization that I have been taught how to lead and command authority through mutual respect and patience. Now that I will no longer be going through routines and preparing for practices or performances, I hope to use what I have learned through dance in my life outside of high school.”

Gomez’s selection as a UTRGV Luminary Scholar ensures she can pursue higher education without financial barriers. As she prepares for this next chapter, she carries with her the leadership, resilience, and dedication lessons that have shaped her journey.

She will begin her studies at UTRGV this fall and will continue to make an impact as a scholar and leader.

Posted inEducation

For Claudia Camarillo, Teaching Is More Than a Job—It’s a Passion

Mayra S. by Mayra S.

For Claudia Camarillo, teaching is more than just a profession—it’s a blessing. With 10 years of experience, she currently teaches dual enrollment and Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish courses, including AP Spanish Literature and AP Spanish Language. But her path to the classroom wasn’t always so clear.

“I always said I was going to be a police officer or something that had to do with the law,” Camarillo said. However, during high school, an AP Literature class taught by Mrs. Yolanda Garcia sparked her interest in language and history, inspiring her to pursue teaching.

Now, as an educator, Camarillo finds joy not only in doing what she loves but also in helping students understand the culture and history embedded in the Spanish language. She incorporates literature from various Spanish-speaking regions, such as Don Quixote and El Brujo Postergado, to provide historical context and cultural insight.

“I like to see the students’ faces when they learn the perspective of a lot of things that we do,” Camarillo said. “Like why we celebrate Christmas a certain way, why we have certain traditions—I explain to them the ‘why’ behind the things we do in our daily lives.”

Camarillo’s teaching approach is deeply student-centered. She recognizes her students’ interests and adapts her methods to keep them engaged.

“Every group of kids in my classes likes different things, so I try to see what it is that they like so I can keep them engaged while following the curriculum,” she said. “We have to be able to sense what it is that the kids like.”

Her unique approach keeps students engaged, even if it means stepping outside traditional teaching methods. She incorporates independent learning days and makes an effort to connect with students on a personal level.

“We are not always going to be able to give them exactly what they are into, but we try to find something they can relate to,” she said.

For Camarillo, teaching isn’t just about delivering lessons and grading assignments—it’s about being fully invested in her students’ growth and understanding.

“My personality is if I know that I am not going to be 100% at something, I would rather not do it,” she said.

As she continues to set high standards for herself and her students, Camarillo remains dedicated to fostering a love for language and culture, always putting her students first.

Posted inEducation

Unsung Hero: Secretary Natalie Lopez’s Dedication to Students and Staff

Kimberly R. by Kimberly R.

A school secretary’s role is often overlooked. From tracking attendance to addressing school issues and helping students and teachers navigate challenges, it involves many tasks. But at Jimmy Carter High School, secretary Natalie Lopez has become a vital support system for students, staff, and parents alike.

Lopez’s journey to becoming a school secretary started with a simple desire: to be there for others.

“I wanted to work as a school secretary because I enjoy providing organizational support in a dynamic environment,” Lopez said. “I thrive in roles that require multitasking, communication, and problem-solving, and I love the idea of contributing to a positive school atmosphere.”

Her path to the position wasn’t immediate. Before landing her current role, she held several other positions in the school system.

“I used to work at Juarez-Lincoln High School in 2016. I was one of the counselors’ clerks there, then I moved on to being the TSI proctor at Juarez,” Lopez said. “Then in September 2021, I saw an opening at Jimmy Carter High School for an attendance clerk and decided to make the move.”

Working in a school environment means encountering a variety of challenges, including dealing with upset parents. Lopez has learned that staying calm and professional is key to handling difficult situations.

“If it’s a parent, I listen carefully, gather necessary information, and provide any assistance I can,” she said. “If needed, I involve the appropriate teacher or administrator to address the issue. My goal is always to de-escalate the situation, provide support, and find a resolution that aligns with school policies while maintaining a positive and welcoming environment.”

Lopez believes that success in her role comes from clear and respectful communication with students, parents, and staff.

“The most important aspect of communication in a school office is clarity and professionalism,” Lopez said. “Since I interact with students, parents, teachers, and administrators daily, it’s crucial that my communication is clear, concise, and respectful. Whether speaking in person, on the phone, or via email, I ensure that my messages are easily understood and free of ambiguity. Additionally, active listening is key—I fully understand concerns before responding so I can provide accurate information or direct people to the right resources.”

Through her work, Lopez makes a difference at Jimmy Carter High, offering guidance and support to those who need it. While a school secretary’s role may not always be in the spotlight, Lopez’s dedication ensures that students, staff, and parents always have someone they can count on.