SDSU Imperial Valley alumna wins Palm Springs’ Elementary Teacher of the Year

Grisele Avila's passion for teaching was ignited in high school by her Spanish teacher, Ana Montes, who brought real-world experiences into the classroom and demonstrated a deep investment in her students. Inspired by Montes’s impact, Avila now brings similar dedication to her students as a third-year dual immersion teacher at Raymond Cree Middle School — a commitment that last month earned her a Palm Springs Unified School District Teacher of the Year award.

“I was always surrounded by great examples,” said Avila. “My siblings were also studying to become teachers, and my Spanish teacher, Ms. Montes, tried to prepare us for the real world.”

Avila first earned her bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with an emphasis in elementary education from SDSU Imperial Valley in 2019, and later entered the Division of Education’s teaching program. After earning her credential in 2021, she began her teaching career at Raymond Cree, initially teaching online during the pandemic.

“Although I graduated and began teaching during the pandemic, I felt like the teaching credential program prepared me well to take on classroom teaching, planning and overall management,” said Avila. “My guide teacher during my last semester even noted that teaching came naturally to me. I always felt supported throughout the program.”

As a dual immersion teacher, she teaches in English and Spanish to a cohort of students that have continued through grades together since kindergarten. She grew to create great relationships with the parents of her students, who have known each other for years.

“I felt like I was the new person in class, as my students’ parents have created a welcoming community with each other,” said Avila. “I had good relationships with my students, too, who helped me transition from online teaching into in person teaching.”

Throughout her first two years of teaching, Avila focused on strengthening classroom management and developing her teaching style. While the technical aspects of teaching came more easily, she emphasized building connections with students was even more important.

“If you don’t take time to invest in creating relationships with your students, it will be harder for them to learn and stay engaged,” said Avila. 

When the nomination advanced to the final stage, her principal and the team organized a surprise parade outside with flowers and posters held by her students and family to celebrate the announcement and share the news.

“I feel extremely proud and grateful for this award,” said Avila. “I had a lot of support every year from my colleagues, mentors, students and parents. It’s such a testament that it’s important to do everything with patience, kindness and passion.”