For many Skyline seniors, Mrs. Cruz has been more than just a math teacher; she’s been a constant presence in their academic journey. Having taught some of her students since 6th grade, she’s had the rare opportunity to watch them grow not just as learners, but as people.

“I started with Geometry in middle school and then taught Algebra 2 and pre-HL in high school the year after, so it was kind of a continuation,” Mrs. Cruz explained. “For me, the best part was seeing my same students again. It felt like I didn’t miss a beat at all. I just continued along with them. After seven years of teaching them, I’m still here with the same people. It didn’t feel like a jump—it was just moving buildings.”

This unique continuity allowed Mrs. Cruz to build deep connections in and out of the classroom. When asked about one of her most memorable teaching moments, she said it was from when her students were doing a challenging topic.

“My favorite teaching moment was when we did differential equations,” she said. “A lot of students came back and said they finally understood the connection between differentiation and integration—it all just clicked.”

But for Mrs. Cruz, overall, the most meaningful part of teaching went beyond academics. “More than just lessons and equations, I grew with the kids,” she reflected. “I’ve been part of nearly half their lives. That’s something I’ll always cherish—and probably won’t ever experience again.”