BY CHRISTINE AGUILARMany students and staff would agree English teacher Sal Hernandez is one of the most dedicated teachers at West Covina. With his involvement in class council, choreographing for the teacher dances at rallies, coaching two sports, and volunteer hours at various school events, his schedule is very full. Hernandez was rewarded for efforts by being named “Teacher of the Year.” He has been teaching at Bulldog Country for five years.
Hernandez is an advisor for Senior Class Council and can be seen staying late nights before rallies to help them with anything they need.
He also attends as many school plays, gatherings, events and games as possible and even volunteers at them. Recently he was a guitar player for Battle of the Bands, Renaissance and Best Buddies’ Art Exhibit, and a juror in the Drama’s production of “Night of January 16th.” Hernandez motto is short and simple : “Create love, courageously.”
His extra effort doesn’t just stop there. Students are always in his class for help throughout the day and after school.
Student Jacqueline Hernandez said, “He is the most experienced teacher I know, he knows how to teach.”
Hernandez coaches track and freshman football as well, which raises the question about what he does on his small amount of free time. With what little bit he has, Hernandez spends it with his wife of seven years and his three year old daughter.
When given the award he couldn’t believe he got it, but he felt good to be recognized by the rest of the departments.
Hernandez was asked why he is so involved in the school and said, “I guess I’m involved because I want to see all the different sides of a student and not just the 55 minutes in class.”
Although Hernandez is happy with teaching, he plans on going back to school to earn a law degree.
