Celebrating Excellence in Education: Loida González of CEIP Lajares
For the third consecutive year, Loida González, the principal of CEIP Lajares, has earned her place among the top educators in Spain. On a recent Wednesday morning, the vibrant community of La Oliva gathered to celebrate her achievements, as local authorities extended their congratulations. The event was graced by the mayor, Isaí Blanco, the councilor of education, Omaira González, and the first deputy mayor, Oliver González.
Recognition of Excellence
Mayor Isaí Blanco expressed pride in Loida González’s commitment to quality and innovation in education. He highlighted the unique environment of CEIP Lajares, where over ninety percent of the students come from diverse nationalities. “Loida and her team have not just met the challenge but have excelled,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of her leadership in fostering an inclusive and effective learning atmosphere.
Invitation to Prestigious Awards
Loida González’s hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, as she is set to participate in the EDUCA ABANCA Awards for the Best Teacher in Spain this weekend in Santiago de Compostela. She proudly placed in the ‘top ten’ finalists in the Primary Education category, securing an impressive fifth position. In a field dominated by male educators, she stands out as the only female finalist who is both a teacher and a principal, a testament to her exceptional capabilities and leadership.
A Philosophy Rooted in Creativity
González’s educational philosophy centers on nurturing creativity and emotional intelligence, which she considers essential tools for her students. “We want our children to be well-rounded individuals who not only understand basic arithmetic but also develop critical thinking skills,” she explained. Her vision is to cultivate future citizens who can engage thoughtfully with the world around them and strive to improve it.
Innovative Educational Approaches
Under Loida’s leadership, CEIP Lajares has pioneered various innovative methodologies, including the ‘Cuestiones de Interés’ (Questions of Interest) approach. This student-centered methodology allows students to pose questions that the teachers then integrate into their lesson plans. “We educate based on the interests of the children,” she remarked. Notably, the evaluation process is unique, involving families in assessing the outcomes of their children’s education, fostering a deeper community connection.
Robotics and Computational Thinking
The school has also made strides in integrating a robotics program and a computational thinking project across various subjects, from Early Childhood Education to sixth grade in Primary. These initiatives have played a significant role in Lois’s previous nominations for the EDUCA ABANCA Awards, showcasing her innovative spirit and commitment to modern teaching methods.
Advancements in Mathematics Education
In addition to her other initiatives, CEIP Lajares has implemented the Jump Math model, a resourceful mathematical program designed to enhance students’ understanding and performance in math. This groundbreaking approach has contributed to improved outcomes for students, reaffirming the school’s reputation for academic excellence.
A Dedicated Educator
Loida González is not just a principal but also a devoted primary school teacher and a specialist in Early Childhood Education. Since she began her career in public education in 2009, she has been an unwavering advocate for her students’ well-being and academic success. For the past three years, she has guided CEIP Lajares, consistently proving her ability to lead and inspire both students and fellow educators.
Loida González’s journey is a remarkable blend of passion, innovation, and dedication. Her work at CEIP Lajares not only sets a high standard for educational excellence in Spain but also serves as an inspiring example for educators everywhere.
