Michelle De La Pena

Hello! My name is Michelle de la Pena, and I am a dedicated 1st grade teacher at Lotspeich Leadership Academy. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas and the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a minor in English and a specialization in Reading/ELAR.

I firmly believe that every child has the potential to learn and succeed when essential components work together: strong parental support at home, a supportive school community, and an engaged and active student. Each child is unique and brings their own special qualities to their education. I am committed to fostering an environment where students not only believe in themselves but also feel safe to express and embrace their individuality and the diversity of others. My goal is to ensure that every child has multiple opportunities to grow in a nurturing and inclusive setting.

Outside the classroom, I am actively involved in my church community in Corpus Christi and support my children’s extracurricular activities, both academic and athletic. My passion for baseball has led me to be a dedicated member of the Little League and PONY baseball organizations for the past 19 years. I also had the privilege of serving as a member of the Laredo Community College Board of Trustees for six years, where my experiences have enriched my approach to teaching. Throughout my career, I have received various awards and recognitions for my teaching and writing skills, but the greatest reward for me is when former students share their successes and achievements.