Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

Jorge Santos ’10CPS, ’12G, ’18GEd, an author and teacher, will be among several alumni honored by The School of Education at the 13th Annual Leaders in Education Awards Dinner (LEAD) on April 11 in the D’Angelo Center on St. John’s University’s Queens, NY, campus.

"Receiving the LEAD award is a distinct honor. To be recognized for the work I passionately do in education is truly meaningful. I am excited and proud to share this moment with family, friends, and fellow colleagues in the field."

Santos is a special education math teacher at Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School in Queens, NY, focusing on equity and restorative justice practices in education. He has developed schoolwide training to support teachers in equity practices and has been dedicated to creating inclusive and community-centered classrooms.

"I’m developing a mathematics curriculum that centers around identity building and multiracial narratives as I seek to continuously implement Indigenous and African cultures into math classrooms."

His work has been recognized through various awards and publications, including being featured in Time magazine and presenting at national conferences on education.

"My educational approach has been shaped by my thesis, conducted under the guidance of Margot Ely, Ph.D. They played an important role in shaping me into the educator I am today."

Santos credits professors Mark and Helen Levy, and Margot Ely, Ph.D., for significantly impacting his approach to education and shaping him into the educator he is today.

"As teachers, we plant seeds that we may never see grow. However, our impact on students will always be remembered. Always empower them to strive for the best version of themselves."

In reflecting on his time as a student in The School of Education, Santos recalls a cherished memory with Dr. Ely discussing his thesis and the importance of racial equity, a moment that highlighted his vision for the future in education.

"As educators, I urge teachers to continue challenging systems that fall short for our children. Create spaces that nurture and use creativity as a tool to engage their learning. Approach this career with compassion and patience, always extending yourself grace, because the service we provide our students is immeasurable."

Jorge Santos' dedication to equity and restorative justice in education serves as an inspiration for the next generation of educators, embodying the values of excellence and inclusivity in the field of education.