Now in her fourth year, Rachel Rodriguez continues to grow the Spanish program, while earning her masters degree, Sept. 14.

Rodriguez teaches six periods of Spanish (103 students), including Spanish I, II and III. Attending Fresno Pacific University in the evenings, she currently is working towards earning her masters degree in Pupil Personnel Services with a plan to become a school psychologist.

Daily planning is important to Rodriguez, especially with her teaching schedule and personal college workload.

“Setting daily goals and making sure I meet them, has helped me balance my school work and teaching,” Rodriguez said. “Letting my duties carry over to the next day, will get me off track. I do not let work things go outside of work, because I go to class in the evenings. My weekends are only for church and studying.”

Building relationship while teaching is important for Rodriguez and something that motivates her.

“My favorite part about teaching Spanish is connecting with students, and having fun while learning a new language!” Rodriguez said. “I love praying over any of the situations that my students are going through, as well as coming alongside them.”

Looking for opportunities to improve herself, Rodriguez also challenges herself to new things.

While only 4’11”, Rodriguez can back squat 183 pounds at the gym.

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