Cholla Charger Network

By: Danielle Hendricks

Mrs. Munoz has been a dedicated algebra teacher at Cholla High School for the past nine years. Over this period, she has witnessed several changes in the math curriculum, nothing that students seem increasingly disengaged, largely due to the distractions posed by their phones.

To stay updated with the latest teaching methods and algebra concepts, Mrs. Munoz attends math trainings and collaborates with other teachers to learn and share different strategies. Her favorite algebra topic to teach is quadratic functions, especially exploring the various methods to find the x-intercepts.

One of her effective teaching strategies involves using the Building Thinking Classroom approach. In this activity, students work in groups of three to solve problems on vertical boards. This peer-assisted learning method helps students understand algebra concepts more deeply as they receive help from their classmates.

Outside of her regular teaching duties, Mrs. Munoz participates with AVID teachers, learning strategies to better support her students. She remains committed to making algebra interesting for her students by walking around the room and providing one-on-one help, which her students greatly appreciate.

Mrs. Munoz believes in the importance of learning math, emphasizing that math is everywhere and helps students develop problem-solving skills. One of her most memorable experiences over the years has been hearing from students who express their gratitude for her help in understanding and liking math. This feedback from her students is a testament to her dedication and effectiveness as a teacher.

We are thankful for Mrs. Munoz and her exceptional teaching skills. Her dedication to student success and her innovative approach to teaching algebra have made a significant impact. Her ability to connect with students and make math accessible and enjoyable truly sets her apart. Cholla High School is lucky to have her.