Amid heartfelt expressions of gratitude from students and colleagues, Prof. Guadalupe Vázquez Cruz was honored during her retirement ceremony after 28 years of teaching mathematics at Emiliano Zapata General Secondary School in the Plan Libertador neighborhood.

Known affectionately as Prof. Lupita by her students, she is also an alumna of the same school. Her fellow educators described her as a role model and inspiration, praising her tireless dedication to teaching and her hands-on approach with students.

Love for teaching, endless patience, and a deep belief in education as a barrier-breaking force were some of the qualities expressed by her mathematics students, who organized various activities to bid her farewell during a ceremony held on the school’s basketball court.

Prof. Lupita began her career at the school as an administrative staff member. Encouraged by her colleagues, she pursued higher education, enrolling at the University of Pedagogical Studies of Baja California, where she earned her degree in secondary education with a specialization in mathematics.

Her passion for education began early in life. As the eldest of five siblings, she took on the responsibility of caring for and supporting her younger brothers and sisters in their studies, a role they continue to appreciate deeply.

Profe Lupita shared that her decision to dedicate her life to education was inspired by her second-grade teacher, Ms. Toñita, at Independencia Elementary School. Ms. Toñita’s dedication motivated her to follow the path of becoming an educator during that formative stage of her life.

The emotional retirement ceremony concluded with students expressing their love and gratitude for Profe Lupita through heartfelt words and gifts. She was also presented with a recognition award honoring her outstanding work as a mathematics teacher, highlighting her responsibility, professional ethics, and unwavering commitment to the educational community.