ALAMOSA — Omar Gonzales leads the kindergartners into the classroom and directs them to find a spot on the floor mat. It’s their first day in the class and “Mr. G.,” as the students affectionately call him, softly and gently interacts with the new students to help them feel comfortable in their new world.

In addition to teaching K-2 visual art and music at Alamosa Elementary, Gonzales is a wrestling coach for the Alamosa School District, serves as a mentor to other teachers after securing a mentoring certificate endorsement through his alma mater of Adams State, and in his seventh year at the school has become a community leader.

“I love it. This community is amazing. Being an educator means giving children an opportunity to learn and experience things they might not experience otherwise, and giving them an opportunity to grow as individuals and become lifelong learners.”

Gonzales was presented with the Educator Highlight Award by the Adams State School of Education for his commitment and dedication to his students, the school and the community of Alamosa Elementary.

“The nomination was based on his overall commitment and service to the community and the school,” said Adams State School of Education Director Curtis Garcia. “He serves on several school and district leadership committees and he is just fully committed to the kids in Alamosa and parents and community.”

The Educator Highlight Award is presented monthly by Adams State School of Education to recognize alumni and prominent local teachers doing amazing things for their K-12 schools. For Garcia, the head of Adams State School of Education, he also hopes that by highlighting teachers like Omar Gonzales, their work will inspire others to join the teaching ranks.

“I hope to encourage others to achieve their goals and desires in their education,” Gonzales said in response to his selection.

To make a nomination for the Adams State Educator Highlight Award, please email teachered@adams.edu.

This monthly award recognizes Adams State University School of Education alumni, prominent local teachers, and other educators working within or hailing from the San Luis Valley. In so doing, Adams State University hopes to build familiarity with the community as a serious destination for future educators.