THE LONGVIEW VOICE — June 19, 2023
Page 13
LONGVIEW HIGH LAMPLIGHTER Senor Perez’s standards require effort and dedication
By Kathia Ramirez-Castillo Senior, Longview High
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hroughout the years I have attended the Longview Independent School District, I have met many people who have influenced me to become the best version of myself in order to succeed in school. To this day, I remember every single one of them; however, one particular teacher is very special to me, surpassing any other person I have encountered. He is Senor Hector Perez. Senor Perez is the reason I have acquired valuable knowledge that will help me graduate. He also is the reason I have remained positive in times when I am stressed due to school. I have had the opportunity to learn from Senor Perez for two years. He is my International Baccalaureate Spanish teacher. When I first encountered him, I did not like him at all. He was strict about his assignments, and he had very high standards as he graded those assignments. During the middle of my junior year, however, I realized that he was strict and had high standards because he was preparing me for college and my career field. Before taking his class, I was accustomed to turning in my work late and not putting enough effort into my work. I will admit that he is not the first teacher who has tried to teach me about showing effort; however, he is the only teacher who actually made me give effort and dedication. Both were fun and rewarding. Although some students viewed his class only as a required class, I viewed it as my happy place. Senor Perez is important to me because he always encourages me to remain positive no matter how hard school gets. There
was a time when I felt depressed and overwhelmed with school. I had essays, tests, and homework due for every one of my classes. As a result, I was not participating in class. I was noticeably quiet and looked quite down. When he noticed, he said, “Si’ tu puedes,” meaning “Yes, you can.” Hearing those words almost caused me to cry. After hearing his encouragement, I felt much better. In fact, it felt good to have someone encourage me. I admired his dedication to seeing me succeed in school. If I ever need help with anything, he has made it clear that I can go to him. He is willing to share any resources that he has if it will benefit me. If I had to list all the reasons that Se-
nor Perez should be awarded this year’s Lamplighter Award, my essay would be more than ten pages long. Not all teachers are willing to put their students’ needs first, but Senor Perez is more than just a teacher who is simply doing his job. He has proven that there are still caring teachers who will do whatever it takes to help their students succeed in school. He goes beyond expectations and forms a bond with his students, making them feel as if they are part of his family. Even after I graduate, Senor Perez will always have a place in my heart. I will forever be grateful for his encouragement because without him, I would not be where I am in school.
