Victoria Camargo (Photo – PUSD)
Victoria Camargo, the Arts Integration Coach at Altadena Arts Magnet Elementary, was surprised last week with a $1,000 DonorsChoose gift card for dedicating her 20-year career to art education.
By News Desk
The Pasadena Tournament of Roses, along with the College Football Playoff (CFP) Foundation, presented the “Big Day for Teachers” award at a morning assembly on Sept. 20. The teary-eyed Ms. Carmargo said she felt honored and grateful to be receiving the award.
“I love my job,” Ms. Camargo said to the assembled students. “I love every day with you guys and I love seeing all your beautiful art all over this school. So thank you for letting me do this great work.”
Her teaching career began as a substitute for Pasadena Unified. In 2002, she was hired as a full-time third grade teacher at Linda Vista. When the school was consolidated, Ms. Carmargo was transferred to Altadena Elementary School as a third grade teacher. Not only is Ms. Camargo a leader, mentor, liaison and teacher, she took the lead in creating the annual Art Walk event and reimagined visual art education online during quarantine.
Dr. Benita Scheckel, Principal , emphasizes, “Ms. Camargo is a true gift to our Altadena Arts Magnet community. She is gracious, hard working and a boundless inspiration to all with whom she interacts.”
Ms. Camargo’s students agree. Fourth grader Evangeline Slemmons said, “I love art class. It’s the best class. It’s my favorite subject.”
“My favorite thing about Ms. Camargo’s class is that we get to express ourselves in our painting and she doesn’t hold back on our creativity,” said 5th grader Solange Portillo.
Ms. Camargo will be using the gift card for student resources. The Big Day for Teachers is a part of the CFP Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers Week, which celebrates educators across the country.
Source: PUSD
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