Fifth Grade Teacher 

Being born and raised in downtown Elizabeth during the 80's, struggling students such as myself were either placed in trailers for "extra help" or sat in the back of the room where your attention ran in every possible direction. Within that time, the only positive attention that I always dreamed to achieve academically was to be seen through my artwork. However, once the recognition faded, the reality would seep in that I was unable to retain information like all the other students. As the years went by my insecurities grew even more, especially in reading and writing. I dreaded my teachers calling on me to read aloud because it created an enormous amount of anxiety. Looking back, everything that I learned throughout my academic life was mostly self-taught. The determination to be acknowledged for more than just my art was all that I had to look forward to in school. This is the same passion that lead me to teaching. Due to that experience, I knew I could bring hope to all the children who struggled emotionally and academically, just like me. My drive is to change my future scholars outlook in life during the 10 months span we have together. My only hope is that they will embrace their flaws and achieve nothing but success. Every child, despite their backgrounds or struggles, needs someone to believe in them.

A heart and mind without prejudice is open to learning, loving, and forgiving. We live in a world where disappointment is anticipated, anger fuels pain, and anxiety hinders progress. Teach without prejudice, assume nothing, and learn everything you can from your administrator, colleagues, and students, so that the lives you touch are inspired to help others do the same. Thus, creating a world of unity and hope.

Kindergarten Assistant 

Juana Zuloaga has been a team member of Elizabeth Public Schools for 11 years and has been in education for 15 years. She has been a teacher assistant at School No. 19 for the past 7 years.