As the back-to-school season approaches, teachers in the District are gearing up for the first day of classes on Monday, August 14. Among them is Henry Guzman, an Irving native who is excited to return to his hometown for the upcoming school year. Guzman will be joining the Johnson Middle School team as an 8th-grade science teacher, marking a significant homecoming for him, as his journey in education started right here in Irving ISD.
A product of Irving ISD himself, Guzman attended Barton Elementary, de Zavala Middle, and Irving High schools. Reflecting on his childhood, he attributes his desire to become an educator to the influence of his teachers. "I've wanted to be a teacher ever since I was in kindergarten. My parents didn't speak English, so my siblings and I relied a lot on our teachers to get accustomed to things here. We looked up to them a lot, and that inspired me to want to help other kids like me," he says.
Guzman has been in the education field for eight years now, and his journey started right in Irving ISD. However, for the past four years, he taught students in Hawaii. When his fiancé received a job offer from the University of Hawaii, the couple saw it as an opportunity for growth and exposure to new experiences. "I had been in Irving my whole life, so I was excited for something new," Guzman shared.
While in Hawaii, he taught AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) and social studies at Jarrett Middle School while pursuing his master's degree from the University of Hawaii. Although living in Hawaii was a dream experience, he missed his family and, of course, the Texan cuisine. "My mom was always asking when I'd return home, and I felt like now was a good time," he adds. His mother, Carmen, is also an Irving ISD employee and has been working in the District since 2011. Having her in the same District was a significant factor in his decision to return, as their bond is exceptionally close. Guzman credits his mother for being a strong motivator throughout his journey of becoming a teacher.
"She's always pushed me to do my best. There were times when school got hard, but she was always there to support me and remind me of my end goal," he shared. "I see how much she's respected and loves coming to work. Everyone is so kind to her, and that made me want to be a part of Irving ISD."
With enthusiasm and anticipation, Guzman is eager to start this new chapter at Johnson Middle School under the leadership of Principal Trent Nickerson. He looks forward to building new relationships with both friends and colleagues in his beloved hometown.
Welcome home, Mr. Guzman. The Irving ISD community eagerly awaits the positive impact you'll make on the young minds at Johnson Middle School.
