Tonichi Lorenzana

Connect What is your favorite part of being an educator?

Building trusting relationships with my students, and watching them grow into thoughtful and empathetic humans is easily the best part of teaching. It’s fulfilling to see my students for who they are beyond the walls of the classroom - understanding the facets of their personalities and what their interests are help me become a better teacher for them, and it makes me so happy when I’m invited to their sporting events, plays, or cotillions.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience.

For the last eight years, I have been the advisor to our Filipino Club, PUSO. Recently, we were approached by the City of Milpitas with an opportunity - to host students from our sister city in Dagupan, PH. My club members were honored, and worked hard to create an enriching itinerary. It filled me with pride to see my students exhibit strong leadership and hospitality as they took our visitors around the school for three days. Being able to build community locally and abroad was unforgettable.

What would you do with the $25,000?

It’s important for me to set my students up for success not only at school but also in their careers. It’s been a goal of mine to take my upperclassmen on a series of field trips to different companies around the Bay Area. By exposing them to local nonprofits, tech organizations, and other institutions, my students can learn about unique and non-traditional career opportunities that they may have been unaware of. The $25,000 award would allow me resources for buses, staff, and food for students.