Getting a real world education
Teresa Estudillo, a fourth-grade bilingual teacher at Obadiah Knight Elementary School for the past two years, has created a dynamic learning environment by integrating real-life scenarios into her lessons, connecting academic learning and real-life practice.
Recently, this led to hosting Sam Vazquez, a radio host from EXA FM Mexico, through a Zoom session. Vazquez demonstrated students various forms of figurative language, such as similes, hyperbole, and personification that she had used in her work, giving the students a deeper understanding of how these literary devices can enhance communication and storytelling.
“The virtual visit from Sam Vazquez was a valuable learning experience for the fourth-grade students, allowing them to see firsthand how the skills they were developing in class could be applied in the real-world,” Estudillo said. “Providing real-world examples can help students make connections between the theoretical concepts they are learning and how they can be applied in real-life.”
Her passion for teaching was inspired by the influence of her own past educators, combined with the idea that education is the foundation of all careers. In addition, the influence of her parents, who are educators themselves, solidified her passion for teaching.
“The impact that good teachers had on my life motivated me to pursue a career in education. I saw education as the profession that makes all other professions possible.” Estudillo said.
Estudillo’s favorite aspect of being a teacher is witnessing the joy of students. She is also inspired by the district’s commitment to ensuring students have access to the necessary resources for a successful education.
“When my students enter the class with a smile on their face and say they are happy to come to my class. It feels great!” Estudillo said.
Inspired by the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Estudillo shares a quote with her students to create motivation: ”If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.”
