Ms. Castano: The Heart of Teaching

We all know Ms. Castano as that one blonde intensive reading teacher for the freshman, but others know her as much more. Entering Ms. Castano class after a long time immediately gave me a smile on my face with the pleasant atmosphere. Her class was split into 2 sides, both sides facing each other and her desk in one corner. We started talking and she tells me that for as long as she can remember, she has dreamed of being a teacher.

Her childhood was filled with make-believe classrooms with imaginary grade books and carefully crafted lessons. This early passion was only fueled by a remarkable 8th-grade teacher whose enthusiasm and dedication left an indelible mark on her. “She was young, and her passion for teaching inspired me,” Ms. Castano recalls, her eyes lighting up at the memory. “I always knew I wanted to make a similar impact.”

Now, years later, Ms. Castano balances her dual roles as an educator and a devoted mother. The juggling act has been extremely challenging, especially when her children were younger. “It was tough keeping up with my kids’ activities and homework while ensuring I fulfilled my responsibilities as a teacher,” she admits. However, her natural organizational skills helped her navigate these demands. “I focus on the task at hand and make it a priority to not take away from family time.” Family is paramount for Ms. Castano. “I love spending time with my family, reading, and traveling,” she shares.

Her family’s current goal is to visit all 50 states, and they have checked out 41 so far. Each summer and winter, they venture abroad, creating memories that last a lifetime. Sports also play a significant role in their lives, as Ms. Castano holds season tickets to University of Miami football games and attends numerous Florida Panthers games. “And I’ve recently taken up pickleball, which I absolutely love!” she adds with a smile.

Throughout her teaching career, Ms. Castano has experienced numerous rewarding moments. One of the most memorable occurred recently when a former student, who had faced many obstacles, graduated as a home health care worker. “I taught her in my third year of teaching, and we kept in touch over the years,” she explains. “Seeing her succeed as a grown woman with kids of her own is priceless. It was incredible when she reached out to tell me I played a role in her journey.”

This connection to her students is what keeps Ms. Castano motivated. “My favorite part of the school day is when a student walks into my class and simply says good morning or asks how my day is,” she reflects. “Those small gestures make a huge difference.” Yet, the weight of teaching is not always easy to carry. Ms. Castanio openly discusses the challenges she has faced, both personally and professionally. “I’ve dealt with difficult times, but I believe those challenges make me a better person and a better teacher,” she says. “It’s essential to understand that everyone has their struggles, and we must approach others with empathy.”

Maintaining a positive outlook is important for Ms. Castano, especially during stressful times. “I rely on my faith and try to stay optimistic,” she notes. With experience, she feels better equipped to handle daily pressures. Her organizational skills extend beyond family life; she maximizes her planning period at school to focus on grading and lesson preparation. “I ensure that when I leave work, I can focus on my personal life,” she explains.

A unique aspect of Ms. Castano’s teaching journey is the legacy of her influence on her own children. Her two sons attended the schools where she taught, witnessing firsthand the dedication and passion their mother brought to her classroom. “They respect what I do, and it means a lot to me,” she shares. Her husband, on the other hand, has been an audience for countless stories both good and bad from her teaching experiences over the years, bringing laughter and camaraderie to their home.

Among the many teachers I have had in the past, Castanio earns the title of one of my favorites. My brother had her in his freshman year, and I had her as well, and we still talk to this day. This bond exemplifies the lasting connections forged in the world of education. One of my favorite memories with Ms. Castano is the last days of school I spent with my friend Liz. We spent those final three days in her classroom, helping her out and chatting. I honestly really enjoyed it because we rarely talked during our morning class, so it was nice to finally have the chance to engage and do things together.

Her advice for aspiring teachers is straightforward yet impactful: “Be mindful of time management. If you are organized and manage your time well, you can separate your work and personal life.” Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of professional development. “I utilize teacher planning days to complete professional development courses, and I’ve taken personal time to further my education as well.”

The most rewarding aspect of being a teacher for Ms. Castano is the deep connections she forges with her students. “Seeing them succeed and wanting to share their accomplishments with me is the best feeling,” she concludes. “It’s a unique experience that few professions can offer.” For her, teaching is not just a job; it’s a calling that enriches her life and the lives of her students, leaving a long lasting legacy that extends far beyond the classroom walls.