We are pleased to share that our fifth-grade teacher, Profesora Susana de la Torre, has been selected as the 2026 Hispanic Women of Weld County Community Award Recipient in Education. This award recognizes an exceptional educator who has made significant contributions and impacts to the community. Ms. De la Torre’s contributions to our school community have been grand! Throughout her professional journey, she has touched the lives of over 150 young ladies at Salida del Sol Academy. She has poured her heart and soul into enriching their lives as a liaison for the former Stryker program between the University of Northern Colorado and Salida del Sol Academy. She has given students from challenging circumstances the chance to dream of a brighter future and connect with mentors who have shown them how real and attainable those dreams can be. She has also taught these same students a love of community service. She has instilled in them the principle of serving others, inspiring future women of courage, strength, integrity, and social conscience.
With her truly humanistic insight, she initiated and has led the Mentoring Comunidades program for teachers at Salida del Sol Academy. Through this program, new teachers are connected with mentors who support them academically and focus on wellness. One needs only to walk by her door to feel her pride in her cultural background. Her love for Frida Kahlo and her “pies para que los quiero, si tengo alas para volar” are staples at Salida del Sol Academy. Her yearly dedication to connecting students with the tradition of the Altar de Muerto and to their loved ones is inspirational. Additionally, as she walks through the hallways, she is usually a walking reflection of Mexican culture and history. Whether it’s her earrings, her jewelry, or her dress, she wears Mexico tall and proud!
We are very proud to recognize Profesora de la Torre for this well-deserved honor!
