Influencer of the Week: Christy Requejo, The First Academy

Christy Requejo has taught at The First Academy for 15 years, and she loves getting to watch her students grow throughout their academic careers. Recently, Requejo was one of four staff and faculty members at TFA to be voted a Christian Educator of the Year by the school’s families. “They have supported our Royals through a memorable and historic school year,” TFA staff said of the award winners. 

What brought you to your school? 

I grew up in a private Christian school and wanted to be able to teach in a similar environment.

What do you love most about your school? 

There’s so much to love about TFA. When you are here, you are loved. This school has a way of teaching the whole student that impacts students on a personal level. 

What is your motivation? 

My motivation in teaching is all about those moments when the students’ passion for learning comes alive. Hearing a student say, ‘I just can’t wait to get to class,’ is one of the best things and motivates me to be my best for them.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? 

Being in a private school, you are able to see the process of growth in students all the way through 12th grade. I love seeing who they become and how they grow in every facet of their lives each year. They are like butterflies breaking their way out, and sometimes, the struggle is hard, but keep in mind, the struggle is what produces the most beautiful butterfly wings.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

In my spare time, I enjoy watching my two teenage boys play their sports, and my husband and I swing dance together.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? 

My favorite teacher in high school was my government teacher. She made class enjoyable and encouraged us to push hard in our projects. It never felt like work when we were in there.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why? 

I truly had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up, but the Lord guided my direction every step of the way to where I am today. 

Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why? 

My biggest inspirations in life are my parents. They have a never-ending attitude of selfless service to others. Even now as they are retired, their mission is how can they serve and they are busier than ever. That’s who I want to be.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? 

Love. I think especially now, kids and adults alike need to know that someone cares about them. Teenagers especially want to know that they fit in and are loved. So a never-ending supply of love would be awesome. 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why? 

I can’t pick when it comes to music! I seem to float around and change my mind all the time, but praise and worship music is what fills me up, with disco a close second.