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TEACH FOR AMERICA PROFILE: JOSE VASQUEZ
Born in Houston, Jose earned a degree in University Studies: Race, Gender and Ethnicity, with minors in Psychology and Sociology, from Texas A&M University.
He will teach eighth grade math at Roncalli STEM Academy.
WHY EDUCATION AS A CAREER?
"Throughout my life, I have had instances where I didn’t believe in myself or didn’t think that I could achieve my goals. During those times -- whether in elementary, secondary or at my higher ed -- I had educators, mentors and admin that saw something in me that was capable and deserving.
"My upbringing came with a lot of struggles, but it was my family, friends and educators who helped me get where I am today. I can remember what it was like to be in middle school and I want to be that educator/mentor that can help my students in the way that I was helped.
"Every student is able to succeed in everything they decide to do. We as educators should make sure that we do everything to make sure that our students all have an equitable access to education."
WHY TEACH FOR AMERICA?
"I’ve had TFA teachers teach me since I was in sixth grade. One of my favorite teachers/mentors and now a lifelong friend is part of the reason I am here today. Being able to be a part of TFA is life coming in full circle. Every TFA teacher I’ve learned from always had two things in common: they respected their students and made an effort to give us the most accessible education possible. I want to do the same thing for my students.
"The only thing that was going to hold me back from leaving Houston was my Mom. My Mom has been my rock since I can remember and leaving her is one of the toughest things I had to do. My Mom and I had a conversation before I left that affirmed my beliefs that I was doing the right thing for myself and that this would be a better way to provide for myself and her."
BENEFIT OF LIFE EXPERIENCES
"I feel that my experience as a kid in middle school will help me a lot with navigating the feelings they might be having and aiding them through those. I believe that the best kind of experience that I have had so far is understanding the importance of making people feel seen and heard. In doing so, it will lead to healthier relationships across the board and will help with educating my scholars because I will be more focused on content then having power struggles."
IMPRESSIONS OF PUEBLO AND THE DISTRICT
"As soon as I landed, I was showered with love. The community and the people that live in it are so welcoming. Being from a big city and moving to a smaller one is always a big change for me, but there is a lot to do in Pueblo and so much history that I forget that the city is small.
"District 60 is doing their best to make sure that their educators and students get the most out of their time while in school. I am excited to be a part of D60 and looking forward to serve the diverse communities that go to D60 schools."