Marco Paulo Aquinde

2019 "Pass the Torch" Scholarship Finalist

Marco Paulo Aquinde’s choir teacher did more than just teach him to sing - she taught him to become a kinder and more empathetic person. Conducting all classroom conversations with love and compassion, but never condescending to her students, “Mrs. A”, as she was fondly known, challenged her students to reflect on themselves and their beliefs - while at the same time modeling a firm commitment to her subject. Having found his calling as an educator, Marco hopes to bring Ms. Adviento’s distinctive voice of warmth and humanity to the students he will soon teach.

Here is Marco's story about Ms. Adviento, the teacher who inspired him.

Want to hear the stories of the other nine finalists? Visit our 2019 Scholarship Finalists page.

Thinking of applying to this year's program? Learn more on our Teachers Test Prep "Pass the Torch" Teacher Scholarships page.