When the new year arrives, Alamosa Elementary first grade teacher Elena Sopala hopes that her students will be excited about learning.
Sitting with gentle holiday music in the background, her first-graders worked on mathematical fact families, filling in ornaments that will be put on a tree. As Principal Roxi Vigil entered the classroom and announced that Sopala had been awarded the Adams State University Educator Highlight Award, Sopala’s students dropped their pencils and awaited the announcement.
Professor and School Director Curtis Garcia, along with faculty and staff from the Adams State School of Education, filed into the classroom and applauded Sopala as her students cheered and smiled along with their teacher.
“It’s nice to be recognized, especially in front of these students,” she said.
The parents of her students sing her praise for making school exciting through special days she creates like stuffed animal day and zoo telling.
“Ms. Sopala is loved by her students. My child had such great growth in reading but math was really where my son shined! She communicated and made sure I knew how my son was doing,” one parent said in nominating her for the award.
Sopala started teaching 24 years ago in Colorado Springs and has been with the Alamosa School District for nearly 15 years.
“I love working with kids and helping them to become good people,” Sopala said.
Each month, Adams State selects an educator from a school in the Valley to recognize for their outstanding work. It’s all part of the university’s efforts to showcase public education and to inspire others to go into the teaching profession.
Educators in the Valley make a difference to our kids and families. To make a nomination for the Adams State Educator Highlight Award, please fill out this nomination form. Anyone can make a nomination.
Find stories of past winners HERE.