The 2023-24 school year is sure to be a time of progress at Aurora Public Schools. Look no further than the Del Mar Park neighborhood, where the brand new Del Mar Academy now stands.
“New” not only describes the state-of-the-art structure itself, but also many of the faces within. Specifically, a trio of Aurora-born educators are beginning their careers with APS here.
“I’m excited for a new building, new colleagues and a new opportunity,” said kindergarten teacher Sachiko Hills.
Looking back on her time as an elementary student, the fourth-year educator praised the lifelong impact a teacher can have on a young learner.
“I struggled with reading early on, but I had a really good reading teacher who helped me improve,” said Hills. “That’s what inspired me to become a teacher.”
That education inspiration similarly struck Naomi St. Hill, a former private school teacher of five years. She joins the Del Mar community with a heartfelt goal.
“I want to be a role model,” said St. Hill. “It’s so important to be there for kids, especially if they might not have strong relationships outside of school.”
In that same spirit of being a source of support, both St. Hill and Hills are excited to be side by side with their friend, Sara Juarez. Previously a paraprofessional, Juarez is entering her first year as a preschool teacher. She admits that it’s a nerve-wracking experience, but that only motivates her more.
“I’m super nervous because I’m new, but my coworkers have years of experience,” said Juarez. “I need to catch up, and I’m ready to do it.”
Juarez speaks for the group when she talks about the pride she feels teaching in her hometown.
“I was born and raised in Aurora. All of my schooling was in Aurora Public Schools, so I’m excited to be teaching here,” said Juarez. “I love my community, and I want to be an important part of it.”