State Senator Nell Soto (D – Pomona) has recognized Philadelphia Elementary School’s Cristina Carrizosa as “Teacher of the Year” for the 32nd Senate District, which extends from Pomona to San Bernardino.

Carrizosa was recognized today along with other teachers at a ceremony held at the State Capitol. Each Senator was asked to honor a teacher from his or her respective district who has made a difference in the lives of students and has contributed to education in general.

“Teaching is a noble profession, a rewarding profession, but it is also very demanding and I think that too many people often take teachers for granted,” Senator Soto said. “Cristina has dedicated herself to being a positive influence in the lives of her students, and I am proud to honor her as ‘Teacher of the Year’ for 2005.”

Carrizosa says she strongly believes in building upon a foundation of mutual respect between teachers and their students. “When shown the same respect and dignity that are normally afforded to adults, students tend to respond in the same manner,” she says. “A positive student-teacher relationship paves the way for teachers to put in practice the theories and methodologies that have prepared them to deliver instruction as well as to manage their classrooms.”