Creating Community at Ochoa Elementary

There is a special person at Ochoa Elementary School, and he goes by Papa Chuck. After nearly 30 years on campus, Chuck serves as both the school liaison and Ecology teacher, and he has become a familiar face for generations of families. Every morning at 7:45, he greets students with high fives and fist bumps, making sure each child feels seen and valued. “We don’t know what a child has endured before they get here,” Chuck said. “Just having them here and welcoming them into a safe environment is what matters most.”

In his ecology class, students head out to the garden each week to get hands-on experience. It is a chance for them to learn and get a little messy while being outside. “We go out to the garden and learn about planting and maintaining the flower beds,” Chuck said. “The kids get to be themselves and just enjoy it.”

Principal Duarte says Chuck’s impact goes well beyond the classroom. “He has dedicated more than half of his life to the wellbeing of children here,” she said. “He is Papa Chuck to our students. From greeting kids in the morning to helping families find resources, he is our go to person and a true part of the community.” And students agree. “He’s nice and funny,” said Natalie, a fifth grader. “He’s a good teacher,” added another student. 

When he is not at school, Chuck enjoys working on his beautiful 1965 Impala. And after 30 years, he is not slowing down. When asked what is next, Chuck smiled and said, “If my heart and mind are strong enough, I’d like to do 30 more.”

Thank you, Papa Chuck, for your years of dedication and the lasting impact you continue to make on  the entire Ochoa community!