Teacher Education Student Perseveres Over Chaos
By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
If you looked up “perseverance” in the dictionary, you may see a picture of Pilar Hernandez.
Perseverance = the continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition.
Perseverance = Pilar Hernandez.
The Rio Salado early education student has been tirelessly working on her studies over the last 15 years. During that time, the challenges were numerous and life-changing.
Hernandez lost both of her parents within a year of each other, went through a divorce, faced the challenges of the Covid pandemic, experienced financial issues, and had her car stolen.
Despite all the setbacks, the single mom of one son never lost focus of her goals.
“I have learned that whatever you have on your plate in life, it’s all about how well you balance it,” Hernandez said. “As a single full-time working mom, my main challenge has been finding the time and energy to read and complete my assignments.”
Hernandez decided early on that the field of education was her calling.
“Ever since I was 17 and took my first child development course, I realized that I found what I was passionate about,” Hernandez said. “I had a teacher who taught with this same passion and advocated for the importance of the early years. She still guides me to this day.”
Another of Hernandez’s mentors is Kimberly Tobey, Rio Salado College’s Director of the Educator Preparation Program.
“Sixteen years ago, I met a young lady through an organization called Younglife,” Tobey said. “What started out as a mentor/mentee relationship has blossomed into a relationship that some days feels like academic counselor and other days like mom and daughter.”
“Pilar has weathered a myriad of storms, but her faith and desire to build a life for her son have kept her moving forward,” Tobey said.
After beginning her studies at an in-person university program, Hernandez realized she needed more flexibility for her learning.
“I chose Rio Salado College because classes start every Monday and they offer the flexibility of online learning,” Hernandez said. “Learning at home lets me log on and work at my own pace to complete my assignments.”
Hernandez is on track to earn her Certificate in the Foundations of Early Childhood Education, and is working toward a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
“I knew that if I pursued a degree in early childhood, I would be offered a variety of career options where I can work not only with young children but also with their families,” Hernandez said. “I believe young children can truly thrive when their parents and families do, too.”
Tobey said there were times that people around Pilar tried to convince her to pursue a career other than early childhood because it might pay better.
“Pilar is committed to making a difference in the lives of children and has stayed the course,” Tobey said. “The lives she will impact will be felt forever in our communities and next generation of student leaders.”
As a full-time preschool teacher, Hernandez is already seeing the benefits of her Rio education. She specifically found the Creative and Cognitive Play class (EED210) helpful as it offered immediate practical application.
“I learned how play was used in music and movement and the arts,” Hernandez said. “I was able to identify what learning areas in my classroom lacked age-appropriate materials for play.”
Hernandez hopes to one day become a quality first coach or early childhood literacy coach. She continues to work toward her goals, and happily recommends Rio Salado to others.
“I would recommend Rio for future students because of the flexible online classes,” said Hernandez. “With such a variety of programs offered and transferrable credits, I’m not sure why any future student wouldn’t choose Rio.”