Nathaniel Rios
Flowing Wells High School and the Flowing Wells District are proud to recognize Nathaniel (Nate) Rios as their nominee for outstanding high school teacher. Nate graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Religious Studies, obtained a Post Baccalaureate degree in Secondary Education in the area of Social Studies also at the University of Arizona, and recently earned his Master’s degree in Teacher Leadership from the American College of Education.
Nate Rios teaches Government and Advanced Placement U.S. History at Flowing Wells High School, which has been his second home for the past 12 years. Mr. Rios believes in the power of community and works daily to forge deep connections in his classroom. By sharing his own story with his students, and requiring them to share their stories through his annual Picasso Project activity, Mr. Rios transforms his classroom from a group of disconnected individuals to a community of learners who begin to see their individual and collective power to make a difference in the world through civic engagement.
In addition to empowering students in his classroom, Mr. Rios also gives back to the larger community. He teaches professional development sessions for new teachers, he serves as a cooperating teacher and a mentor for rookies, and he provides support for veteran teachers in his role as an Instructional Coach. Mr. Rios leads school clubs and chairs the National Honors Society at Flowing Wells High School, engaging students in fundraisers, blood drives, and other service-learning opportunities. Through his work with students and his leadership with colleagues, Nate Rios consistently delivers on the potential of public education to create a stronger community.
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