Teacher of the Month Monika Ortiz, Bandelier ES

Pepsi and the APS Education Foundation recognize some of our outstanding teachers.

Second-grade teacher Monika Ortiz developed her passion for teaching during her college years as a youth recreation leader. Nearly two decades later, she still has that same passion.

“I love working hands on with the students, I love to see them engaged and excited about learning,” Ortiz said. “I love to see the progress they make and when you have a student who has discovered that they have strengths and positive things to build off of, it’s inspiring and it’s rewarding.”

Monika Ortiz is the Pepsi/APS Education Foundation’s Teacher of the Month for November.

Pepsi and the APS Education Foundation have partnered for the past seven years to recognize a few of the district’s outstanding teachers for their contributions to the classroom, school, and community.  This year, Flying Star Café is also recognizing our teachers by donating a gift card.

The Foundation randomly selects one APS school each month, and that school’s principal or staff chooses a teacher to be honored. The teacher receives a $100 check from Pepsi, a $50 gift card from Flying Star Café and acknowledgment on the APS website, Facebook page and electronic billboards.

They receive a small token of appreciation but represent the many outstanding teachers in Albuquerque Public Schools.

Meet Monika Ortiz: