Palm Springs Desert Sun Newspaper November 29, 2024…
“La Quinta High School’s instructional technology teacher has earned statewide honors, thanks to a nomination from the Palm Springs Chapter of the Air & Spaces Forces Association, for inspiring students with a “glimpse into what’s possible.”
“When Frank Ceja began teaching at La Quinta High School in November 2019, his students were initially reluctant to embrace him. For those enrolled in the information and communications technology pathway, Ceja was one of several teachers who came and went over the span of a few years.”
“They hated my guts,” he said with a laugh.”
“Born and raised in the Coachella Valley, Ceja had no plans to leave, so he got to work — with a focus on first creating an uplifting environment.”
“Once that was in place, everything else would follow,” Ceja said. “I think I’ve done that, and I think the kids trust me and know I have their best interests at heart. But it also requires patience.”
“Five years later, the instructional technology teacher was named the 2024 California Teacher of the Year by the Air & Space Forces Association.”
“AFA’s Teacher of the Year program honors STEM educators who go above and beyond in fostering student achievement and excellence in teaching.”
“Ceja’s dedication to his students and commitment to advancing cyber education embodies the values this award stands for,” said Jim McFarlin, president of AFA Palm Springs, who sponsored Ceja for the award, in a press release.”
“While Ceja shared his gratitude for the award, he stressed that it wasn’t just about him.”
“I think this whole Teacher of the Year thing was also good for (the students). One of my students came up to me and said, ‘You know, Mr. C, I am so proud of you. I’m proud to be your student. I’m proud you’re my teacher,'” Ceja said. “And when does that happen where the kid tells you that? And so, that kind of choked me up a little bit.”
“His classroom is a constant hub of student activity, with a steady flow of students before school, during lunch and after school. In those moments, Ceja said he takes pride in seeing his students gradually build their confidence, step outside of their comfort zone and forge meaningful connections with their peers.”
“The program is finally where he wants it to be.”
