Skyline High School alum (2010) Julissa Marmolejo was amazed to see how much her third-grade students academically grew by the end of last school year. For her first year as a teacher, the growth she saw affirmed that she chose the right career.
AlumNow, a Hub feature that checks in with district alumni to see where they are now, caught up with Marmolejo for an update as she prepares to return to the classroom for a second year of teaching.
What are you doing now?
I just completed my first year of teaching at David G. Burnet Elementary as a third-grade bilingual math and science educator, and I will be back to continue my teaching journey at Burnet this fall. As a math and science teacher, it is my responsibility to educate my students on how important math and science are in real life and have them understand the importance of education in the long run.
Briefly list a few of your career and/or personal highlights.
I think that as a first-year teacher, having the superintendent walk into my classroom and observe me, and for him to have left impressed, was a big accomplishment for me. Also, seeing how much my students grew during the whole school year amazed me. It reassured me as to why I came into the education field: to change lives.
What was your favorite subject or activity/involvement in high school?
During my time at Skyline High School, my favorite extracurricular activity was being part of the Student Senate because I had an amazing advisor, Ms. Shinn, who always went above and beyond to help us improve our school and keep our school traditions and spirit alive.
What lesson did you learn in high school or beyond that has served you well through the years?
The most valuable lesson that I have learned is to always follow your dreams. The journey to achieve them may not be easy. There will be challenges on the way, but in the end, the feeling of accomplishment is the best feeling in the world.
What advice, if any, would you offer to high school students today?
The best advice I would give to high school students is to get involved in extracurricular activities, which are important for networking. Also, start applying for scholarships and take advantage of any free college courses that are available at their high school.
College/University and degree earned:
The University of Texas at Austin – B.S. in applied learning and development, early childhood–sixth grade with bilingual education certification.
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