Raquel Gonzalez

Raquel Gonzalez has worked in public school education for 29 years as a school administrator, grant manager, counselor, and teacher. For the last three years, she has supported students in high school and middle school with scheduling, social-emotional progress, and academic preparation for their futures. Gonzalez earned her master's degree from the University of Texas in 2004 and her undergraduate degree from the University of the Incarnate Word, a Catholic private school in San Antonio, Texas. She has received recognition as a star teacher at South San Antonio Independent School District and milestone honors for her years of service at Austin Independent School District and South San Antonio Independent School District. Gonzalez attributes her success to the dedication she brings to her work and the belief that educators can positively impact students, families, and the community. She values compassion, kindness, and helping others, and she supports causes including Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army. The best career advice she has received is that relationships come first in buildings and that a strong school culture is essential. Gonzalez advises young women entering the field to have the heart for helping others without recognition and the backbone to serve and care for others. She sees high counselor caseloads as a major challenge and identifies opportunities in leadership and counseling to strengthen departments, particularly with increased state funding for elementary schools.