San Elizario ISD Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher Dr. Ana Luna uses her high school classroom to prepare her students for future careers in technology, business, health sciences and engineering.
As a forensics and biomedical sciences CTE teacher, Luna exposes her students to techniques used in real world law enforcement and crime investigations.
Her lessons cover topics related to the collection of evidence including entomology, anthropology, ABO blood typing, fingerprinting, DNA, case studies, hair analysis and ballistics.
In addition to her regular classroom teaching duties, Luna is also leading by example, as she recently obtained her doctorate in education; a perfect example of life-long learning for her students.
“There are a lot of kids in this community that have a story like mine,” Luna said. Born in Mexico and raised by her grandparents, Luna did not have the opportunity to go to college until she moved to the United States.
“I come from really humble beginnings. I struggled with the culture and language, but knew how important it was to get an education. Now, I strive to instill the same confidence in my students, that it doesn’t matter where you come from – you can still reach your full potential.”
“It’s fantastic to have Dr. Luna as a teacher in our CTE program,” said Michael Rodriguez, CTE Coordinator at San Elizario ISD. “To have someone teaching these courses who has achieved that level of education and is continuing as a lifelong learner, you can’t ask for a better role model.”
SEISD officials add, “Through partnerships with local colleges and universities, these CTE courses allow students the opportunity to earn dual credit, articulated credit, industry certifications and licensure while completing their high school degree.”
Author:Â Angela Saavedra – ESC Region 19
