Educator Awards Spotlight: Andres Gonzalez
Andres Gonzalez is the ESD 105 Regional Classified School Employee of the Year and is the Technology Director at Yakima School District
We’re sharing the wisdom of our incredible regional and state Teachers and Classified School Employees of the Year, in their own words. Find more on our Spotlight page.
What advice would you give someone who is just beginning their career in education?
I would advise them that an important aspect of success is mindset, as mindset influences behavior which in turn influences outcomes. Establish the correct mindset and there is almost nothing you can’t accomplish.
What one change in education are you most excited for when we reach our post-COVID reality?
The current emphasis on equity for students and parents was brought to the forefront during the pandemic. Though schools were making slow and steady progress in this area, it now has increased attention at all levels.
What do you think is the most important part of your job?
Making sure that the technology is less of an “arms race” of the latest and greatest tools, and more of a methodical practice with skill-building and engagement driving the process. It should be a construct for all not just for those that would naturally succeed.
What was something that surprised you about working in education?
The pace at which needed/important change sometimes occurs. It took a massive disruption to students’ education to emphasize the need for government to devote serious attention and resources to improve, mitigate, and correct the long-standing inequalities in the system.
What is one local, state, or national education issue that you think more people should be thinking/talking about?
The impacts of technology on the whole child. We need to account for the positives and negative consequences in the areas of physiology, psychology, and social-emotional due to the use or overuse of technology, driven by schools.
Learn more about the Teacher and Classified School Employees of the Year on the Educator Awards website.
