The Inspiring Journey of Loida González Montenegro: A Beacon of Innovation in Education
Loida González Montenegro is not just a teacher; she embodies the spirit of innovation and passion for learning at the Lajares School where she serves as both a professor and director. Renowned for her dynamic teaching style, she transforms her classrooms into vibrant learning environments filled with curiosity and engagement. This year, her efforts were recognized when she received the prestigious First Educa Abanca Award as Spain’s best teacher in the early childhood category for 2023.
A Legacy of Nominations and Recognition
Loida’s remarkable journey in education is underscored by an impressive record of seven nominations in the Educa Abanca Awards, with six of those resulting in finalist status. Her recognition is not solely personal; she emphasizes a collective spirit among her colleagues, stating, “I want to highlight that there was also a colleague from my center nominated this year, who did not become a finalist, but she epitomizes the wonderful teaching team we have in Lajares.” Her appreciation for community support shines through, as she expresses gratitude for the families and students who champion their efforts in achieving educational objectives.
Honoring Educators: A Step Forward
A notable moment in this year’s award ceremony was the personal acknowledgment from Poli Suárez, the Education Counselor of the Government of the Canary Islands, for all prize-winning educators. This gesture marks a significant step towards recognizing the essential contributions of teachers: “It was a kind gesture from the Department of Education to value our work,” notes Loida. This year’s award ceremony also served as a culmination of an annual Education Congress, where Loida actively participated, exchanging ideas with other educators on various relevant topics.
Innovative Teaching Methods
Loida explains that the awards jury closely monitors teachers’ work, emphasizing the importance of using innovative tools and approaches to engage students. “Last year, I had a class of five-year-olds, and I presented numerous projects, like crafting Christmas ornaments using 3D printer molds,” she recalls. The introduction of augmented reality captivated her young learners, making the classroom an exciting place for exploration and creativity. The classroom becomes a stage where children can share their thoughts, engage in discussions, and act out stories—crucial components of their development.
The Power of Creativity
Creativity stands as a cornerstone in Loida’s teaching philosophy, fostering an environment where children can express themselves and explore innovative solutions. She fondly remembers various projects, such as geometry-themed cookies and using apples to create unique prints. “We always achieve astonishing results,” she shares, brightening at the thought of these endeavors.
With steadfast dedication, Loida frequently participates in professional development courses, enhancing her teaching techniques. “I work like any other colleague, but I feel incredibly fortunate. I’m passionate about my profession and strive to improve every day,” she stated. This commitment ensures that her classroom remains a dynamic and adaptive learning hub.
Sharing Knowledge and Resources
In her quest to support fellow educators, Loida maintains a blog where she shares her ideas, projects, and resources. Her social media presence informs teachers about her methods and outcomes, demonstrating practical and adaptable approaches to education. “For instance, I teach the vowels using giant letters,” she explains. Her contributions to the educational community include three publications—two for children and one focusing on teaching methodologies.
Emphasizing Accessibility and Practicality
Loida invests her free time in creating materials that utilize various digital applications for photography, drawing, and coloring. “I aim to make everything practical and suited to the individual needs of each student,” she highlights, showcasing her commitment to personalized education.
Growing Demand for Educational Spaces
As Lajares continues to expand, so does the demand for educational spaces. Loida acknowledges that the enrollment numbers at the Lajares School have skyrocketed, indicating a pressing need for infrastructure development. With the village’s increased population, she firmly believes that the government should begin planning for a new school to accommodate the growing number of students. “Lajares is one of the fastest-growing towns on the island, and we receive numerous applications each year,” she asserts, reflecting her dedication not just to her students, but to the broader educational system in her community.
Through her tireless efforts and innovative approach, Loida González Montenegro exemplifies what it truly means to be an educator ready to inspire and foster a love for learning in young minds. Her journey illustrates the profound impact a passionate teacher can have on both students and the community, reaffirming the importance of creativity, adaptability, and collaboration in education.
