Recently, Irene Cerna joined SFSC as the DeSoto Campus coordinator. She was born and raised in Arcadia, where she attended DeSoto County schools. She is happily married and has three children. She loves to spend time with her family, read, and try new foods. As she embarks on this new endeavor, she’s thankful for the many families that entrusted her with their children over the years and looks forward to making a positive impact on students in their college education. We wanted to learn more about her, so we asked:

What does your job as DeSoto Campus coordinator entail?
As the DeSoto Campus coordinator, I will be responsible for the management and implementation of Campus activities and initiatives. These responsibilities include: working with the dual-enrolled students from DeSoto County High School, partnering with the community, networking within the community, and helping students succeed.

Tell us about your education.
I attended SFSC and earned my Associate in Arts before transferring to the University of South Florida, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. I was awarded my master’s degree in Early Children’s Literacy Development from Trident University in Chandler, 亚利桑那州.

What attracted you to this job? And to working for SFSC?
22年来, I taught various grades at West Elementary School in Arcadia and worked at the school and district level on various committees. I knew this opportunity would allow me to continue to interact with students and impact their future in their post-secondary education. SFSC is my alma mater and I am forever grateful for the opportunities afforded to me as a student. I know SFSC is student-centered and seeks to help students reach their goals. My wish is to continue to serve and give back to my community.

What did you enjoy the most about teaching in the school system?
Building positive relationships with my students was the most enjoyable experience of my teaching career. Studies show that when students feel supported, 爱, 被照顾, they have better academic outcomes. It was always my goal to foster a loving environment where students felt comfortable enough to take risks, 挑战自我, and learn as much as possible.

You were named Teacher of the Year for DeSoto County in 2022. How did that come about?
I believe I was chosen as District Teacher of the Year for DeSoto County due to my work ethic, 奉献, and knowledge in the classroom. I’m a team player who likes to elevate and inspire others to reach their fullest potential. This was probably the most humbling honor I could ever receive as a teacher. I 爱 my job and simply 爱 being able to do what I love every single day.

What skills and experiences are you bringing with you, from your days as a teacher, 给大学生?
作为老师, 我合理安排时间, along with various schedules, 认为批判性, 是创造性的, found resolutions to conflicts, and organized many things all at once. My current job also requires many of the skills a teacher must possess on a daily basis. College students still want knowledge and guidance from someone as they learn to navigate post-secondary education. I’m able to help in many aspects of their college pathway. 继续阅读