Sessions of 2024 Summer Conference: Eric Perez

Perez , Eric

Instructor
East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT)

I have been fortunate to call East Valley Institute of Technology home for the last twenty-five years. Born in South Tucson, Arizona and raised in a lower-class family, a higher education seemed merely impossible to obtain. Yet, understanding the importance of education and acting on my passion for art caused me to work diligently to overcome these struggles. My family and I moved to Tempe, Arizona when I was fourteen and where I still reside today. Moving to Tempe, AZ gave me the opportunity to meet my soulmate and raise three amazing children. These new opportunities allowed me to succeed as a student and become the first in my family to receive a college education. I relied heavily on my educational abilities and my artistic skills to create a proficient career. Knowing that it was possible from my own personal experiences, I try to encourage every student I interact with to seek their own technical skills and strive for continuous education. I am very driven, hardworking, and persistent when guiding my students while always offering help to others in need. My best efforts have led me to many accomplishments within my thirty-five year teaching career such as: being voted Best of Mesa 2014, 2015, 2020, 2021- Teacher of the Year by Mesa Tribune Newspaper, winner of the “National Civic Star” award sponsored by the American Association of School Administrators-Sodexho School Services, ACTEAZ (Arizona Career and Technical Education of Arizona) "Teacher of the Year" 2008, Arizona Platinum Apple winner for Teacher of the Month April 2007 and 2005 National Graduate of the Year award sponsored by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & Colleges of Technology. I have also been recognized as a leader among the nation’s best education systems, in promoting academic achievement through school and community partnerships. Having the ability to take my passion and guide others in the same field has been an amazing experience. Being among likeminded educators at the ACTE Conference would not only be an honor but a rewarding encounter.