With 20 years of experience, Maricela Velazquez-Bezelj brings passion and dedication to teaching Spanish, guiding students through the rich and diverse world of language and culture. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Pomona College and has extensive certifications, including Multiple Subject BCLAD and Single Subject credentials. In addition to teaching, she has served as a TSP & Title I Coordinator for over 15 years, specializing in school budgets and compliance.

 

Mrs. Velazquez-Bezelj’s teaching philosophy centers on helping students find their voice and reach their highest potential. She creates a welcoming environment where students feel a sense of ownership, approaching language learning as an exciting cultural journey. Her focus on fostering mutual respect and mentorship helps students become more confident and invested in their academic and career goals.

 

Spanish is, of course, her favorite subject to teach, but she also takes great pride in her special projects, such as organizing holiday baskets for families and providing free prom dresses for students in need. Mrs. Velazquez-Bezelj incorporates technology into her teaching by allowing students to present their projects using various online platforms, making learning interactive and engaging.

 

Outside the classroom, she contributes to the school community through her involvement in the Latina American Culture Club, the Self-Care Club, and her former role in "Bring Change to Mind." As a founding faculty member of HArts, she has participated in many activities over the years, including leadership, School Site Council, WASC, and Parent meetings. She also serves as the Homeless Liaison, helping students and their families navigate transitional situations by connecting them with vital resources. Additionally, she is involved in tutoring programs like TIIP, CAP, and BSAP, where she assists with budget planning and support.

 

In her free time, Mrs. Velazquez-Bezelj enjoys traveling, going for walks, and indulging in her passion for interior design. She worked in International Business for many years, and has been a licensed real estate agent and notary public for 20 years and enjoys flipping houses in her spare time.

Finding a balance between work and life is something she is continually working on, especially this year as she focuses more on self-care. Some of her proudest moments as an educator include witnessing students become the first in their families to graduate from high school and go on to pursue college or fulfilling careers. She was also the first Golden Apple Award recipient at HArts in 2014, a recognition of her outstanding contributions to the school community.

 

Looking ahead, Mrs. Velazquez-Bezelj hopes to develop a strong financial literacy and social-emotional learning program for her homeroom advisory students, equipping them with essential life skills as they transition into adulthood.She reflects fondly on her career and the impact she’s had on countless students' lives.