With teachers dropping out of their professions left and right, Andrea Gil remains unmoved. Despite the challenges that have forced many educators to reconsider their careers, Gil continues to prove that passion for teaching can withstand even the toughest storms.

One of her former students, Ximena Balis, recalls the impact Ms. Andre had on her learning experience. Balis describes her as a teacher who was always patient and approachable, ensuring that students felt supported in the classroom.

“She was really calm and patient. She never got frustrated, even when we were struggling to understand something,” Balis recalled.

Beyond creating a safe space for students, Ms. Andre also found ways to make learning engaging. Her ability to bring lessons to life transformed her classroom into more than just a space for memorization—it became a place where knowledge felt relevant and connected to the real world.

“She would tell these little stories or give examples from real life that made the lessons easier to understand. It wasn’t just about memorizing stuff—it felt connected to the real world,” Balis added.

This approach extended beyond academic content. Ms. Andre encouraged her students to think critically, challenging them to engage with material on a deeper level rather than just absorb information.

“She was all about making us think deeper,” Balis explained.

In addition to her academic influence, Ms. Andre was known for her keen ability to recognize when students were struggling, even beyond the classroom. Her attention to detail and genuine concern for their well-being set her apart.

“Last year, I was struggling with a project, and she noticed before I even said anything,” Balis shared. “She stayed after class with me and helped me organize my ideas. I ended up doing really well because of her.”

This dedication to her students’ growth was not limited to academics. Ms. Andre aimed to instill confidence in her students, regardless of their starting point.

“She cared about making sure we felt confident in ourselves. Even if we weren’t the best at something, she wanted us to know we were capable of improving,” Balis said.

Beyond her patience and dedication, Ms. Andre was also recognized for her ability to remain composed in difficult situations. Rather than reacting with frustration, she approached problems with a level-headed perspective, ensuring that students always felt heard and understood.

“She stayed calm and didn’t freak out. If there was a problem, she just talked it through with us and found a solution,” Balis noted.

When asked to describe Ms. Andre in three words, Balis chose: “Patient, kind, and inspiring.” These qualities, though simple, hold immense value and reflect the impact she has had on her students. 

 Ms. Andre’s teaching philosophy motivates her in the classroom, and she feels that her students’ growth is what motivates her to continue her teaching journey. Her passion for student growth was immediately evident.

“The most exciting part is seeing the progress in students. When I prepare my classes and guide them through processes, it’s rewarding to see how they grow in so many different ways,” she shared.

Balancing personal life and teaching is often a challenge for educators, but Ms. Andre believes in maintaining a level of transparency with her students.

“I try to keep things professional, but I don’t hide if I’m having a hard emotional day. I think it’s important for students to see me as a real person, not just a teacher,” she explained.

This openness has fostered strong relationships with her students, allowing for meaningful conversations and deeper connections.

“I’ve shared aspects of my personal life, and it has led to rewarding conversations with students, helping our relationships grow stronger,” she reflected.

Another cornerstone of her teaching philosophy is respect—something she believes should be present in every interaction, whether with students or colleagues.

“Respect is a cornerstone of my philosophy. I think it’s important to show respect, no matter who you’re interacting with. It goes both ways,” she said.

By prioritizing respect and empathy, Ms. Andre has cultivated a classroom environment where students feel valued and heard.

“In this job, I feel that being respectful has allowed me to engage in meaningful conversations with my students and colleagues alike,” she added.

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Andre is deeply concerned about the role of technology in students’ lives. While she acknowledges its benefits, she also sees potential dangers.

“While technology is an amazing tool, I feel it’s distancing us from deep, meaningful human connections. Social media especially can sometimes create harmful comparisons,” she warned.

She hopes that her students will learn to use technology with a critical mindset, ensuring that they prioritize real-world connections over digital interactions.

“I want students to think critically about how they use technology and remember that real-world connections are more valuable than any virtual interaction,” she said.

Ms. Andre’s influence extends far beyond academics. Through her patience, empathy, and ability to inspire confidence, she has left a lasting impact on her students. Her lessons are not just about information; they are about self-growth, resilience, and the value of connection. As students move forward, they carry with them not just the lessons she taught but the confidence she instilled, proving that a great teacher’s impact lasts far beyond the classroom walls.