The teacher of the month for October is Charly Garza. His positivity, advice, and desire to be involved have been an essential part of his classroom and the community at Hughson for the past two years. 

Garza said he was inspired to become a teacher by his father-in-law, Dan Matthew, who was a long time teacher at Ross Middle School. He commented, “being a teacher is an adventure as everyday holds new and unexpected events.” One of his favorite aspects of teaching however is much simpler. He said he enjoys “engaging with students in meaningful and thoughtful conversations.” These conversations are some that connect Garza with his students and create meaningful connections. As a teacher, Garza revealed that he tries to make material relevant by, “encouraging students to try and understand WHY” things happen in the way they do; he says this helps students examine their own thoughts and beliefs.

Garza is both a World and United States history teacher here at Hughson, teaching tenth and eleventh grade. Aside from his teaching, Garza is also the head varsity baseball coach, head varsity flag football coach, as well as the advisor of the Hughson High Bible Club.

As a pillar of the community, Garza advises aspiring teachers to pursue this path with the desire “to make a positive impact on the lives of young people,” which he has been doing as an educator for the past 24 years. 

Despite the fact that the impact is not seen immediately, the impression Garza has made on the lives of his students is evident. He advised them to, “take advantage of the opportunities that school offers with regard to clubs, sports, education, etcetera.” His favorite memories are from seeing his students “learn along the way.” Garza also said he is “blessed to work here,” adding that Hughson is “a great place to live and work.”