More than 20 years ago, when there was a shortage of Spanish teachers, Ms. Arias began her journey at Cardozo High School. She joined the staff of the school in 2000, along with seven other educators. Since then she has continued to play an important part in the school community, impacting the lives of many children and creating an environment of respect and kindness in her classroom.
Currently teaching Spanish in the World Language Department, Ms. Arias has also taught ISS (Individualized Student Support) classes in the past. While Spanish has always been her main focus, she took opportunities to teach in diverse environments, adapting to different ethnic groups and personalities.
When asked about what she hopes her students take away from her class, Ms. Arias mostly talked about the importance of respect and kindness.
“The world is a better place when we treat others with respect and kindness,” she said. Beyond teaching language, she seeks to encourage positive relationships and kindness, leaving an impact on her students.
After 23 years in education, Ms. Arias is proud that her love for teaching has remained the same. “My proudest achievement is that, after many years of teaching, I still love what I do. My passion for teaching and connecting with students continues to drive me every day,” she shared.
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Arias is involved in educational collaboration across New York City. She works with teachers from other schools to develop resources that help with student learning experiences and support her fellow educators. This dedication and collaboration showcase her kindness and teamwork.
When she’s not teaching, Ms. Arias spends quality time with her family and friends. “It’s important for me to unwind and connect with my loved ones, which helps me stay balanced and energized,” she said.
Looking in the future, Ms. Arias hopes to continue growing both personally and professionally. She mostly has a passion for lifelong learning and looks forward to opportunities for knowledge.
Her advice for students? “Give yourself the opportunity to truly know yourself. Recognize that you are amazing and capable of accomplishing incredible things. Challenge yourself, and surround yourself with people who inspire and support you in bringing out the best in yourself.”
What Ms. Arias loves most about teaching at Cardozo is the sense of being involved. “Cardozo is not just a school; it feels like a family in every sense of the word. The support I receive from my colleagues, students, and the administration has made my career not only more rewarding but also more fulfilling,” she reflected.
For Ms. Arias, Cardozo is more than a workplace — it’s a community that has helped her grow as both an educator and an individual. “Cardozo truly is a beautiful place to work, and it has shaped me into the teacher I am today,” Ms. Arias shared, with a smile.
