Maria Valdes is a new Spanish teacher at Edmond Memorial High School (EMHS) who fits in perfectly with her experience and excitement. While teaching is not the easiest job, Valdes strives to make sure that the students are learning properly.

While she is now in the classroom, teaching was not always her first choice. She originally attended college at the Autonomous National University of Mexico, earning a degree in law.

After moving to the U.S., becoming married and having her credentials validated to practice law, Valdes realized a career in law was not for her. Even though law was her passion, teaching stood out above it as something that she could do easily, anywhere.

“I validated my credentials to practice law but did not want to because I knew we were going to move, so someone suggested that I teach,” Valdes said.

She has now been teaching for over 20 years in many different settings and schools including around ten years in other public schools and a couple more teaching at the Retinas Community College in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Along with all of her experience, Valdes is very excited to be a part of EMHS this year. Moving into her new room, meeting her students and becoming a part of this school’s family has been a smooth and enjoyable transition for her.

“My experience at Memorial has been wonderful. I am super happy and I feel like I am in a family with the other teachers,” Valdes said.

With this 2022-2023 school year ahead, Valdes is looking forward to meeting, teaching and learning with her students.

Contact Ian Humphreys at [email protected]