PASADENA, Texas — This month, Pasadena Independent School District highlights Golden Acres Bilingual Pre-K teacher Genesi Romero as this month’s Alumni Spotlight. The district is excited to reconnect with alumni and showcase their contributions to the community. Today, we delve into the inspiring journey of Ms. Romero.

Can you share a bit about your background with Pasadena ISD?

I graduated from South Houston High School in 2012 and began my career as a special education aide there. While working, I attended the University of Houston-Clear Lake to earn my bachelor's degree in education. As an aide and student in Pasadena ISD, the flexibility of my schedule was invaluable, motivating me to complete my studies and become a teacher.

Next year, Romero will celebrate 10 years with Pasadena ISD. “Wow” I spent five years as an aide working in various grade levels like elementary, special education, and middle school settings, and then five years as a pre-k teacher it’s gone by so fast.  

What does it mean to you to give back to Pasadena ISD as a teacher in the district?

It’s a great feeling coming back as a first-generation Latina graduate and becoming a teacher for an amazing district like PISD. I love giving back to my community that I am so proud to have been raised in. It means the world to me that I get to teach little ones who may one day return to this district to become educators.

What lessons and knowledge did Pasadena ISD instill in you and how have you used that knowledge to get where you are now?

Romero credits Pasadena ISD with instilling in her the courage to try new things.I didn't have any idea of what I wanted to be after high school, but I remember having amazing teachers who always told me “I would be someone in life," she recalls. 

The district's belief in my ability to help others has stuck with me and guided me in my journey as a pre-k teacher. I am forever grateful for this school system and administrators because there were times, I doubted myself, but I knew I was meant to be a teacher.

What made you want to start posting teacher content on social media platforms?

Romero's journey into social media began with a desire to connect and inspire through teacher content: I kept seeing how social media was impacting teachers around the world, sharing their daily struggles, wonderful ideas, and resources. I wanted to be part of that community to inspire others to not be afraid to post and get their name known. 

Sometimes within the district, there are amazing teachers with resources or ideas they want to share but feel afraid of the 'what if.' I feel like I have grown a lot by sharing content on my social platforms and hope to continue inspiring others.

How has creating teacher-related content helped you become a better educator?

Creating content has helped me in many ways to let go, have fun, and connect with other teachers around the world. At first, I was terrified to make videos, but I started seeing how many other teachers relate to one another and how we can learn new ideas to teach or make school engaging and fun. 

I want to grow in many ways and explore new opportunities. I see myself one day working in the administration building, helping with curriculum development, and guiding new and veteran teachers to be the best versions of themselves.

What's your favorite part of the job?

My favorite part of teaching and creating content is being able to be myself, learn from others on social platforms, and do my dream job. It is not always easy, but I am thankful for the support of my principal and colleagues. I truly work at the best school!

Do you have any advice for future teachers?

My advice is to never give up on your dreams, even when the journey gets hard. Push yourself to the finish line because bigger and better things come along even when you don't think so. I was afraid of starting college and continuing my schooling, but I kept going, and now I get to do my dream job in a district that allows me to grow in many ways.