Selina Alonzo
English High School Teacher in Phoenix, AZ
For eleven years Selina Alonzo Helton has represented an outstanding commitment to children and families in her community. As an English teacher in the Phoenix Union High School District, Mrs. Alonzo Helton demonstrates a love of learning and a passion for her profession. She was named her district’s 2009 Teacher of the Year, and was also honored in 2010 with the Esperanza Award given by Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc. As a community member, Selina represents urban families by serving on the Board of Directors for The Neighborhood Center, through Neighborhood Ministries and also through volunteering. As an expression of their faith, Selina and her husband Phillip are committed to working for justice by living, teaching, serving and fellowshipping in the Calle 16 neighborhood of downtown Phoenix. In 2012, Selina was selected as a White House Champion of Change by the White House and the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics.
Why do you teach? I have a bulletin board in my room labeled, “The Reasons I Teach” it has pictures of students that span 11 years. I teach because of them and for them. They are worth the effort.
What do you love about teaching? I love the opportunity to impact and motivate youth. I love that I play a role in shaping hearts, minds and the future of this country through education.
When you were a student, was there a great teacher who inspired you? I have had so many AMAZING teachers. I am fearful to make a list because I know I will leave someone out, but Sallie Chalfin, Sharon Bernero, Jose Arenas, DeeDee Falls, Lynn Palacios and Pat Robinson are the ones that stand out the most. What’s true about all of them is they all told me that I would be something someday and they believed and pushed me into success. As an adult I am still a student and I have been greatly impacted by Dr. Kent Scribner. He has invested in me and challenged me to always be the best version of myself. Furthermore I have had the opportunity to learn while teaching alongside powerhouses like Reyna Huerta, Alaina Adams, Pam Ramsey, Gerald Neal, Carrie Deahl, Edie Fluker, Gayle Deaver, Judy Laufer, Dr. Robert Turley and Dana Cook. These colleagues teach me daily.
