Cultural Educator of the Year
Maria Moreno - S.C. Outstanding Cultural Educator
“From the beginning, I have taught my students about my country and my culture. I always talk about the difference between our cultures. Through many activities, I have helped make the schools more culturally aware.”

Maria Moreno Espinosa • Ecuador Ecuador
South Carolina Outstanding Cultural Educator

Special Education Teacher
Special Day Program ▪ Charleston County Schools, South Carolina

When Maria Moreno’s special education students at the Special Day School Program expressed interest in different Christmas traditions, the second-term VIF teacher decided that her class should study how the holiday is celebrated around the world. Moreno explained many of their holiday traditions, including that in her native Ecuador, the Christmas celebration begins at the end of November, right after celebrating the capital city’s independence anniversary, which includes 10 days of bullfights.

Each of Moreno’s students chose a country to learn about and wrote an essay on that country’s holiday traditions. The exercise heightened the students’ interest in different cultures and helped them see beyond differences to the similarities of people the world over. They have become more aware of the world around them and the similarities among people around the world.

Moreno sponsors the school’s Spanish Club and a cultural movie club and performs in a Latin band at community events. She also spearheaded a school-wide activity to paint a world map on the school grounds, providing a lasting reminder of the value of diversity and cultural appreciation.

Principal Stephanie White, Special Day School Program:

“Ms. Maria Moreno is a wonderful cultural ambassador for the VIF program. Maria is a warm, caring, firm and supportive teacher and an excellent team player at our school.”