Born and raised in La Jara, as she proudly says, Pat Naranjo is acutely aware of the struggles with math and English that some Hispanic children can experience. It’s a main reason why she became the Literacy and Math Lab instructor at Centauri Middle School eight years ago.
“I just wanted to help my people out and help them get there,” is how she puts it.
This week, Adams State School of Education faculty arrived at Centauri Middle School to recognize Naranjo and her teaching excellence. She was joined by her students, who along with Principal Brian Riccatone, celebrated Naranjo’s recognition.
“She’s a super effective teacher,” Riccatone said.
From the nomination of Naranjo comes more: “I have countless memories of this educator in action. My stories will never compare to the students she had and continues to teach. I have seen nothing but hard work and dedication to her students all my life. She always finds ways to reach her students. Continues to educate herself and those around her to better her skills for the students. She makes a home for students who struggle with different subjects. They leave feeling confident and ready to take on their educational road blocks.”
Make your own nomination for the Adams State Educator Highlight Award. A selection is made every month by faculty and staff with the Adams State School of Education.
Like many from the Valley, Naranjo moved away after high school when she attended and graduated from Barnes Business College in Denver. She made her way back home to La Jara a year later and knew then the Valley was where she’d spend her life.
She attended Adams State to become a teacher, then went to work at Centauri Elementary for 14 years before migrating over to the middle school.
“I love middle school,” she said in receiving the Adams State award. Students at that age, “are just so fascinating. They’re so fun, they get my jokes…They’re so spontaneous and just fun to be around.”
Consistency in the classroom is key, she says. “Letting them know that I care about them, and just my interest. I think my math and language interests really are a big part of it because if they know I’m really into it, then they’re easier to buy into what I’m doing.”
Read more stories about Educator Highlight Award recipients HERE.