A Full-Circle Moment: Teach for America Leader Returns to Bethune

What a day to remember at Bethune! We were honored to welcome Elisa Villanueva Beard, the CEO of Teach for America, back to the school where it all began. Elisa started her teaching career right here at Bethune through Teach for America (TFA) in 1998, and today she returned to inspire the next generation of students.

Sara Sims, Phoenix #1 Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives and fellow Bethune faculty alumnus, greeted Villanueva Beard with a hug. Together, they took a moment to reflect on their time here and the positive impact TFA has had on our district. Dr. Deborah Gonzalez, Phoenix #1 Superintendent and Ms. Claron Sells, Bethune Principal, took Mrs. Villanueva Beard on a tour of campus to see how the school has changed. 

Mrs. Villanueva Beard spent time visiting Mr. Michael Rubio’s 6th grade classroom, where she spoke with students about dreaming big and giving back to the community. The students asked thoughtful questions like “What are your favorite hobbies?”, “Is this your dream job?”, and “What did you want to be when you grew up?” One enthusiastic student even found her after class to ask a few more questions! 

Teach for America’s mission is to expand educational opportunities for children by finding, developing, and supporting diverse leaders who are committed to creating lasting change. TFA alumni, like Principal Jonathan Avilez at Garfield Elementary School, continue to make a difference in our Phoenix #1 schools and communities.

We want to give a huge thank you to Mrs. Villanueva Beard for sharing her story and to TFA for providing incredible teachers who have become such a big part of our district. And of course, a special shout-out to Mr. Rubio’s class for being excellent hosts!