7: How Did I Get Here

My journey as a Latina K‑12 student to a school leader is a story of adversity, self‑discovery, and resilience. I was born into a bilingual, bicultural household and faced instability due my parents’ divorce and remarriages. I navigated cultural and educational challenges, experiencing firsthand the impact of low expectations and societal biases. Despite these obstacles, my passion for learning led me to pursue my General Education Diploma and higher education, balancing my family responsibilities with my studies. I transitioned from serving as teacher’s aide to the role of a teacher, driven by a desire to create inclusive learning environments. My leadership trajectory included the following roles: teacher specialist, assistant principal, and interim principal, where I learned the importance of building relationships, fostering collaboration, and navigating educational systems. These experiences motivated me to launch a teacher preparation program in higher education, emphasizing high expectations and support for future educators. As I reflect back, I see how the ups and downs of my education journey have contributed to the values and perspectives I hold as a school leader today. Overall, my career path is a devotion to lifelong learning, advocacy for students, and a belief in the transformative power of education.