Emily Gasca is a dual language Kindergarten teacher at Sadlowski Elementary School, and a Teach Plus ECE Change Agent. She is shouting out her principal, Rafael Jiménez.
Q: How would you describe your principal?
He is a very passionate principal–passionate about students, educators, and our community. He is welcoming to everyone and has the biggest heart. He is the face of this school and he is everywhere–in the classrooms, on the intercom, welcoming people into the building–he is very involved in every aspect of the school. Principal Jiménez wants everyone to feel supported in our school and he goes above and beyond to serve others.
Q: What is your favorite memory with your principal?
This may not seem like a memory, but the most memorable times that I have had where I’ve felt heard and seen are being able to sit in his office and solve problems together. It’s so humbling to know that I can go to him to talk about anything and that I have his unwavering support.
What message, if any, do you have for your principal this year?
Mr. Jiménez, thank you–I appreciate what you do for everybody in the school–you go above and beyond the role of principal to make everyone feel welcome here. Thank you for sharing your gifts with us and our community.
Is there anything else that you want to tell us about your principal?
He is truly admirable. He’s accomplished so much at a young age, and this is just the beginning. He’s an incredible example for our students–he is an immigrant from Mexico and he moved here to this community as a child. He lives in the community and understands the challenges that our students face because he was once that child. Now he is a successful and well-respected principal, showing our kids that the sky’s the limit in terms of what they can do when they grow up. I am honored to be under his leadership.
To learn more about #PrincipalPrideChi and Principal Appreciation Month, click here.