Gerardo Muñoz, a social studies teacher at Denver Center for International Studies at Baker in Denver Public Schools, was named Colorado’s 2021 Teacher of the Year in a special virtual ceremony today.
“I am honored and excited to announce that Gerardo Muñoz has been selected as Colorado’s 2021 Teacher of the Year,” said Colorado Education Commissioner Katy Anthes. “In an exceptionally tough year, we are grateful to have outstanding educators like Mr. Muñoz who dedicate their time and energy to supporting our students. Mr. Muñoz is a respected leader in his school and community. He encourages students to speak up on important issues and inspires them to pursue their passions. We are excited to watch his journey as our Colorado Teacher of the Year!”
As Teacher of the Year, Muñoz will represent the entire profession in Colorado and be the public face of Colorado’s teachers. He will be entered as Colorado’s nominee for the National Teacher of the Year Program competition and will receive many professional development opportunities. Muñoz, along with the country’s other teachers of the year, will be honored at a special ceremony at the White House and get the opportunity to go to NASA’s Space Camp. He will also become a member of the Colorado Education Commissioner’s Teacher Cabinet.
Muñoz has taught middle and high school students at the Denver Center for International Studies at Baker for 14 years. His classes include Concurrent Enrollment Ethnic Studies, Advanced Placement World History and 5280 Challenge/Student Board of Education through DPS’s Student Voice and Leadership program.
During his 21 years in education, Mr. Muñoz has been involved in a number of programs, initiatives and organizations to promote equity and anti-racism, including EduColor, Choose, the National Education Association’s Racial and Social Justice Conference, and the University of Colorado’s Teachers of Color and Allies Summit. Muñoz earned his bachelor of arts degree in history and Latin American studies from the University of Colorado, as well as a master of arts in curriculum and instruction from the University of Denver.
Denver7 is proud to partner with the Colorado Department of Education on the Teacher of the Year program. Canvas Credit Union is a proud sponsor of Teacher of the Year through Denver7. Canvas Credit Union congratulates Gerardo Muñoz, this year’s Colorado Teacher of the Year recipient.See how Canvas celebrates our community and helps Coloradans Afford Life at canvas.org.
Click here for more information on Mr. Muñoz and the Colorado Teacher of the Year program.