Impact

I was a horrible teacher.  The absolute WORST.  I screamed.  I yelled.  I taught things incorrectly or didn't teach them at all...  I started projects I didn't know how to finish and treated most of my students the same.  I hated it.  I hated myself.  I wanted to quit.

But I didn't.

Instead, the craziest thing happened.

This silly, quirky, thought provoking kid in glasses reminded me of why I chose teaching in the first place.  He challenged me, day after day, to keep going.  In the years that have followed, Julio continues to be the student who pushes me to do it better... do it with love... and have fun.

He was the first one I ever deeply connected with

                                                                         and now he's gone.

I'm still wrapping my head around how this amazing human being who impacted my life in such a tremendous way isn't here anymore.

You see, I'm awesome because of Julio.

Love,
me

Austin Chronicle Article Remembering Julio Santos

Body Found at Lady Bird Lake - Julio Santos III