LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Juan Loera was nominated by his colleague, Betty Palmer.

Mr. Loera is starting his fifth year as a CTE Law Enforcement program instructor at one of Washington state's 14 technical skills centers. With a deep background in military and law enforcement, he brings extensive knowledge and experience to the program. His years in military leadership translate perfectly in a Career and Technical Education environment. He has extended his leadership experiences into opportunities for his students to develop their leadership skills.

In Washington state, the skills centers serve consortium districts, enrolling numerous students from different high schools and home schools. The majority of students remain for the school year, and those who find their stride will often return a second year when possible. Typically, the student body is very ethnically, socially, financially, and academically diverse.

Mr. Loera took over the well-built program and further developed it into a positive learning environment that aligns with the professional standards of the industry. He emphasizes respect with and from students. He recognizes students' backstories and educational needs, and he adjusts his teaching strategies to meet his students' needs. Mr. Loera has created numerous opportunities for individual students to be successful to the best of their abilities. He has instituted a leader cadet program that helps with class structure and accountability. The program enables students to develop critical leadership skills that not only help them in the classroom, but will support them after graduation. When students do not meet expectations, the consequences are "corrective actions" in the form of push-ups, running, and squats, rather than negative or punitive actions. He also incorporated a promotion system, which encourages students to grow. The system inspires other students when they see what a big deal the promotion ceremonies are for their peers. The formal promotion ceremonies are often very moving for parents, some who have not seen their children feel successful in their schools. Mr. Loera invites the Skills Center staff and students to attend these ceremonies.

Mr. Loera's structure helps students develop confidence, which helps them transform into successful students. Students also learn that the course is not only about law enforcement or grades, but about being a good citizen. Mr. Loera has high expectations for integrity and compassion, and he consistently reaches out to include parents, colleagues, community members, and law enforcement professionals as guest speakers.  The uniformed students also volunteer for the annual Leavenworth Salmon Festival. They've become a critical component of the festival due to their assistance with parking lot management, driver safety, and customer service. 

Mr. Loera is naturally a bright, thoughtful individual. His growth-mindset and positive attitude is palpable in the classroom. His affable personality makes him approachable, and students feel safe and supported in the program. Mr. Loera's sense of fun is regularly displayed in games of dodgeball, pickleball, obstacle courses, and other activities. He gets results, as demonstrated by former students who are working in a dispatch center, enlisted in the military, or working in security and law enforcement. He is well-regarded by his law enforcement colleagues in the region, teaching colleagues, building leadership, parents, and students.