PHOENIX — Our 12 News A+ Teacher series continues with an incredible teacher, mentor, and coach in the Phoenix Union High School district.
One of Carolina Alonzo's students nominated her to be recognized for being there through thick and thin, whether it be on campus, if she needs advice about college or help with transportation. She is truly there to support her students in any way she can.
12News was at Phoenix Digital Academy when that student and her teacher’s fellow staff members surprised her on campus.
“I nominated my social worker Ms. Alonzo,” said Alyssa Marquez, a junior at Phoenix Digital Academy. “She helps me with my work, my outside life problems, there’s been times where I can’t make it to the school for my clubs, and she’ll be like, just tell you mom I’m there to pick you up.”
“She advocates for me where I’m not comfortable,” she said.
Marquez said she appreciates how Ms. Alonzo is making a big difference in her life. Alonzo’s time is not only spent with students at Phoenix Digital Academy, but she also works with students, coaching and leading clubs in other schools across the district.
“She has a regulators group emotional support group and I am part of that,” she said.
Marquez said Ms. Alonzo recently gave her some helpful advice.
“I have been in foster care, but now I am adopted,” she said. “She said I qualify for a scholarship for that, and I was like okay, let’s get on it.”
When Marquez and the 12News team walked into the principal’s office, where Ms. Alonzo thought she was showing up for an enrollment meeting, Marquez shared the incredible news.
“You’re an A+ Teacher!” Marquez said.
“What?” said Alonzo, who was completely caught off guard to hear she had been selected as a 12News A+ Teacher.
“Is this what this is about?” Alonzo said.
“You always help me with transportation,” said Marquez. “You always tell me just to keep going, and you’re always reminding me how good of a person I am, you’re just always there for my family.”
“Thank you, oh my gosh,” said Alonzo. “This is incredible, I’m just really thankful,” said Alonzo, as friends and co-workers looked on through the doorway.
“That’s why you guys are here?” she said. “What is happening? Oh, you’re the best!”
“It’s been a pleasure working with Alyssa and her family. These kids, this job is why I do what I do,” said Alonzo.
“Keep going and keep pushing and there’s people in the world that want that for you too,” she told Marquez. “Go to college, change the world, do it.”
Before the special visit, a $500 check was presented to Ms. Alonzo on behalf of 12News and American Furniture Warehouse.
“I’m so honored,” said Alonzo.
If you'd like to nominate a teacher who’s made a difference in your life to be recognized as a 12 News A+ Teacher, send in your nomination by emailing connect@12news.com.
Be sure to include the teacher's name, why they deserve to be recognized and your contact information.
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