Teacher Spotlight: Mr. Flores

Pasadena High School’s Ethnic Studies class was first introduced in the fall of 2021 and was able to happen thanks to the strong efforts of our charismatic and lively teacher Mr. David Flores. Mr. Flores has been at Pasadena High School for the past two years and has continued to contribute to the school through teaching Ethnic Studies and coaching the Girls Varsity Soccer Team.

Mr. Flores began his journey in education when he was in the 8th grade as he fought alongside other students, including current faculty member Mr. Herrera, to save what was formerly known as Washington Middle School. As a student, Mr. Flores had gone to the school board and was assisted by the wonderful labor leader Dolores Huerta to implement changes that encourages and brightens a student’s knowledge. Ultimately, his success in this journey kept Washington Middle, or what is now currently Octavia Butler, open.Today, it is known for its success in STEM.

When I had the chance to interview Mr. Flores, he reminisced on an experience that shaped his drive to become a teacher. “I remember taking a bubble test when I was 5, and I was told that I would be successful while my other friends were not told that.” He continued by mentioning how the majority of his friends did not have college as an opportunity and the resources to prioritize school. For this reason, teachers like Mr. Flores strive to motivate their students and encourage them to seek higher limits.

Now, as a teacher, his goal is to be the voice and space for his students, no matter who they are. He believes that his students should have someone dependable who they can trust, especially when students feel as though they do not have many individuals who can provide support. As an instructor, a tool that Mr. Flores likes to incorporate is holistic teaching, where the focus is on reaching all of the students’ needs in the best way possible. Mr. Flores also brings this approach onto the soccer field.

At PHS, Mr. Flores has been the coach of the Girls Varsity team for two years. He’s had a strong connection with soccer since childhood. Back in school, he was the captain and goalie of his team, where he took his roles seriously by searching for different approaches to the game looking at the sport’s bigger picture. As a coach, Mr. Flores implements older tactics from his experience into being a consistent and supportive leader for students of the sport.

Overall, after having an opportunity to speak with Mr. Flores, I gained insight about a young teacher who is paving the way for dreamers and individuals who have always wondered if they could make a difference. At this time, I believe that teachers as a whole are wonderful leaders who can inspire us and push us to leap towards our dreams. Just like us students, they started their path once just willing to take a risk, and just like them, we can also succeed. A grand applause to our wonderful staff for making our student body a little bit wiser everyday.