“I share my story with kids all the time because I know they can see themselves in my story.”
We are proud to announce that DCP teacher Luis Falcon was named the YMCA Project Cornerstone 2020 Asset Champion in the category of Positive Cultural Identity. Luis is currently a 6th grade social studies teacher at DCP Alum Rock Middle School, but his relationship with DCP extends beyond that. In 2006 he graduated from DCP El Primero High School unsure about how his future would play itself out.
After some time in the workforce, he decided to enroll at San Jose City College where he discovered his passion for history and education. He eventually transferred to and graduated from UC Santa Cruz with a personal mission of returning to DCP as a teacher. Through a Teach for America placement, Luis began his teaching career in the same part of San José where he grew up.
(Left) Greeting students, making a connection before they enter the classroom. (Right) Speaking at DCP El Primero High School’s 2014 graduation ceremony. The same spring he became the first in his to graduate from a 4-year university.
“It’s a huge mistake when teachers do not value students culture and their personal identities because when they do use this power they embrace it, and they see themselves as a valued member of your classroom.”
The Positive Cultural Identity recognition is particularly significant for Luis because he believes that helping students connect to their family history and cultural identity is critical to student engagement and success. His personal story, with its challenges and triumphs, inform his teaching practice on a daily basis. We thank YMCA Project Cornerstone for recognizing one of our teachers. And we share in celebrating one of our beloved teachers and DCP graduates.
Read more about Luis’ recognition: YMCA Project Cornerstone Asset Champions 2020.