Shaping the Future – Alejandra Maria Díaz
Global Teaching Partners
Alejandra Díaz, a Global Educator teaching in a dual language immersion elementary program, shares her experience leading up to her Teacher of the Year award.
Shaping the Future
Teaching is more than just delivering lessons, it’s about inspiring and shaping the future. Alejandra Díaz, a Global Educator teaching in a dual language immersion elementary program, embodies these qualities. An educator who uses her classroom as a space for growth and cultural appreciation, Alejandra has been named the teacher of the year at her school in Durham, North Carolina.
A Legacy of Teaching and Giving Back
For Alejandra, the path to becoming a teacher was personal. Raised in a family that valued education and service, she was profoundly influenced by her mother, a passionate educator, and her father, a dedicated social worker. Seeing the work of her parents, Alejandra decided that teaching would be the most impactful way for her to make a difference.
A Dream to Teach in the U.S.
From an early age, Alejandra had her sights set on teaching in the United States. Her journey started with learning English as a second language, but she knew true mastery comes with immersion. She believed that teaching in a country where English was the predominant spoken language would help strengthen her skills. According to Alejandra, it was an added bonus, “…having the opportunity to share my culture and bring a little bit of my heart into the classroom…”
Creating a Supportive Classroom Environment
One of Alejandra’s greatest joys is witnessing her students’ growth; not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. Transitioning from teaching fifth grade to working with kindergarteners, she has remained steadfast in her belief that a supportive and respectful classroom fosters success. Ms.Díaz says she is proud of the character her students exhibit. As a teacher, she encourages the students and builds bonds with them during their time together. “I set clear boundaries, but also show them every day that I believe in them. I want them to feel proud, capable, and know that they can achieve anything they set their minds to, the sky’s the limit.”
A Bridge Between Cultures
Beyond traditional teaching, Alejandra is a passionate advocate for dual language education. She sees it as more than just a linguistic tool, it’s a bridge between cultures, a celebration of diversity, and a way to build confidence in young learners. Alejandra believes that in a multicultural world, language connects us all, and she is committed to fostering that connection every day.
Through her dedication, Alejandra Díaz is shaping young minds. Her passion for teaching and cultural exchange continues to leave an indelible mark, earning her well-deserved teacher of the year award.