Faculty: DREAMS Magnet

Ms. C. Equihua-Gonzalez | Magnet Coordinator

I am lucky enough to work in the community where I grew up. Being a product of Huntington Park has shaped my educational philosophy. I believe all children can learn at their own pace and in their own way with the foundation being having a strong relationship with their teacher. Children thrive when they have an adult deeply invested in their education. I strive to be a mentor to my students and take pride that my little itty-bitties come back years later to tell me all about their accomplishments. They know that I am always available to help, give advice, or just be their cheerleader. I am proud to be a part of such an amazing place. LRA was built on the shoulders of educators who believe that dedication, hard work and huge spoonfuls of love and commitment make all the difference in the academic success of a child. I am fortunate that my colleagues and I have a growth mindset that together we can and will accomplish great things.  Twitter: @CecyGonzalezETK

MY educational background: 

• I got my BA from CSULB

• Masters from CSUN

• Teaching credential

• Administrative credential

• Nationally Board Certified in Literacy 

• LAUSD Teacher of the Year 2020.

WHAT I'M PASSIONATE ABOUT:

• Interdependence 

•  Growth Mindset 

•  Student-Centered Instruction

Web page link

 

Ms. Barajas | Fourth Grade Teacher

The core of my educational philosophy is belief that all students are learners who are capable of meeting and exceeding their own goals and expectations. Instruction isn’t a “one size fits all” approach because students learn via different modalities. I believe that my students needs are what drives my instruction, and I am always willing to adapt my practices. It is my goal to provide a classroom environment that is positive, welcoming, and nurturing to all learners. In my classroom we all work together to achieve high expectations. I also believe that a student’s success is the direct result of a joint effort between students, parents, teachers, and all school staff. For this reason I believe in forming a strong relationship with my students, their families, and the community.  

Education:

California State University Long Beach: Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies and Minor in Spanish

Chapman University: Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Masters Degree in Teaching

National Board Certified Teacher: Literacy: Reading & Language Arts

Passionate About:

• Supporting my students’ educational growth as they discover new learning.

• Inspiring my students to always strive to be the best that they can be in anything that they set their mind to do.

• Guiding my students in becoming passionate lifelong learners

Web page link

       
Ms. Cortez | First Grade Teacher

My educational philosophy is centered around creating a safe and stimulating environment where all students can grow academically, mentally, emotionally and socially. I believe that students thrive when they feel safe in their environment. They learn to take risks and take control of their learning so that they grow to meet their full potential. I also believe in working together with parents to best meet our students’ needs. I find value in building these relationships with parents because I know they will benefit my students interests. In the classroom I am committed to providing students with opportunities that lead to learning by developing engaging lessons where they have access to hands-on learning material and projects. They will have numerous opportunities to practice skills and incorporate the use of technology into their day. Ultimately, it is my hope that in doing all of these things, I will inspire students to love learning and become life-long learners. I received my BA from CSULB, my Masters from Chapman University and I am Nationally Board Certified in Literacy. 

What I am passionate about

• Sparking student curiosity

• Social Justice

• Making learning fun, engaging and culturally diverse.

Web page link

Ms. Gonzalez | Fifth Grade Teacher

My educational philosophy is that all students deserve a place to learn that gives them a sense of community and belonging. I intend to create a space for my students to be able to collaborate and communicate their ideas as they continue to become proficient and productive students who have empathy for others. I graduated from California State University, Los Angeles with a degree in Child Development. 

I am passionate about: 

• CGI Math

• Using technology as a tool to support instruction

• Social Justice

DonorsChoose.org/veronicagonzalez

Web page link