A Passionate Educator’s Journey: Mayra Reyes Shaping Minds and Dreams

Teaching is a noble profession, a path chosen by people who want to make a difference in the lives of their students. One such remarkable teacher is Mayra Reyes, an English teacher at John A. Ferguson Senior High, whose dedication to her students and desire for personal growth are truly inspiring. With dreams of visiting Greece, a background in veterinary technology, and a tireless love for teaching, Mayra’s journey is big to her passion and commitment. 

Mrs. Reyes’ journey as a teacher began with a love for literature and a desire to make a positive impact on young minds. She said, “I never had the thought of becoming an English teacher, until now.” Having earned a degree in English, she jumped on a career in teaching. Her journey, however, was not an easy one. Despite her love for English, Mayra had another passion…veterinary science. 

Her deep passion for animals led her to enroll in a veterinary technology program. For seven years, she immersed herself in this field, learning the wonderful aspects of animal care and well-being. The time spent in vet tech school was a period of personal and professional growth. She developed a deep understanding of animal physiology, pharmacology, and surgery, but her passion for teaching was never far from her heart. 

While Mayra thrived in the veterinary world, her husband’s military career posed a significant challenge. The only school offering a veterinary program was in Gainesville, which would have meant a long-distance separation from her husband. She faced a difficult decision, to continue her journey in vet tech school or to support her husband’s career. In a testament to her commitment to her family, she chose the one she thought was the best, leaving behind her dream of becoming a veterinarian.

Transitioning back to a career in education was not without its challenges. The teaching landscape had evolved, and she had to adapt to new methods and technologies. “I was looking where to teach, until I found this interesting school” she said. She found herself in a school as big as an ocean, surrounded by countless students and teachers. The enormity of her new workplace, John A. Ferguson Senior High, was initially overwhelming. But she was not one to back down from a challenge.

Her life as a teacher was demanding, marked by countless hours of work, grading, and repetition. She often described her role as a balancing act, juggling the responsibilities of guiding her students and managing the challenges of grading. The weight of her responsibilities was immense, but she embraced it with crazy dedication.

One of the most remarkable aspects of her teaching career is her exceptional connection with her students. She possesses the unique ability to relate to and understand the needs and challenges of her students. Whether it’s helping them correct their own mistakes or guiding them through the complexities of Grammar, Mayra’s commitment to her students’ success is unconditionally big. She reminds me of the saying, “Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about inspiring students to reach their full potential.”

Her empathy and genuine concern for her students extend beyond the classroom. She takes the time to listen to their concerns, offer advice, and help them pursue their dreams. It’s not uncommon for her students to seek her guidance even after they’ve graduated. Many attribute their academic success and personal growth to the big mentorship they received from Mayra.

In addition to her strong rapport with students, Mayra is highly regarded among her people. She is known for her collaborative spirit and willingness to lend a helping hand. Her close ones appreciate her positivity and dedication to the profession. She’s not just a teacher; she is a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration.

Mayra’s love for teaching is evident in her approach to the classroom. “I try to make my lessons fun and entertaining so my kids don’t get bored” she said. Her lessons are engaging and exciting, designed to create critical thinking and give some love for learning. She is not content with just teaching a subject, she wants to catch a passion for knowledge in her students.

Life is not all about work for her. When she finds moments of respite, she enjoys hanging out with friends, giving in to her love for literature and poetry, and showing her inner artist. These personal interests remind her of when she was a teenager, making her bring more enthusiasm and creativity to her classroom. 

One of her lifelong dreams is to visit Greece. Like she said throughout the conversation, “I love Greece and I have always wanted to go there, its my dream”. The thought of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture has always fascinated her. Despite her busy schedule and responsibilities, she’s determined to turn this dream into a reality. She believes that experiencing new cultures and places can offer a fresh perspective that can benefit her students.

Mayra Reyes, a dedicated teacher, a fast learner, and a loving wife, makes her perfect for her profession. She said, “Throughout my journey of teaching, I’ve realized how passionate I am about it”. Her journey, marked by selflessness, passion, and commitment, serves as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of knowing her. She is big on the idea that teaching is not just a job but a calling, a career that can shape lives, inspire dreams, and leave a remarkable mark on the world. Mayra’s journey reminds us that the pursuit of one’s dreams and aspirations, even when faced with differences, can lead to a life filled with purpose and meaning