The historian Henry Adams once said, “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.” That’s why, in celebration of National Teacher Appreciation Week, we reached out to College of Education lecturer Bobby Macias with some questions.
A third-generation Flagstaffian and first-generation college graduate, Macias has earned praise from colleagues for treating students like collaborators in the classroom. Macias’ unique approach earned him the distinction of 2025 College of Education (COE) Teacher of the Year. Read on to find out how Macias fell in love with teaching, what advice he’d give to future educators and what he does on a day off.
Where are you from and what was your upbringing like?
I was born and raised here in Flagstaff, and my family is third-generation here in the city. My upbringing was full of happiness and family surrounded by cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents who all taught us our cultural traditions and roots from our heritage.
When did you first decide to become a teacher?
I was working at Kinsey Elementary school as an NAU tutor, and I was so inspired by the teachers there who worked so magically with their students. I remember saying to myself, “This is it; this is what I want to do.” I had a wonderful mentor teacher named Nina Andersson who took me under her wing. I shared this with my parents and then declared my major with pride. I have never looked back.
How did you first come to NAU?
I was admitted to NAU in 1999 through the STAR program, which was a pathway for first-generation students to have higher education opportunities. I am so grateful for this program as it opened the door for students like me to have access to a college degree program.
Why do you find teaching in the COE rewarding?
The COE is home for me in terms of continuous learning. NAU and the COE have opened numerous doors for me to engage in, for example, continuing my education in the Ph.D. program, participating in study abroad and teaching exchanges in different countries and leading a partnership program for our students.
I am seen as a contributor in my field, bringing my knowledge and teaching experience to our teacher education programs where I am part of a team who helps work with our teacher candidates to become compassionate, justice-oriented educators for children. Seeing our students develop along their journey is the most rewarding aspect about teaching in the COE.
What does it mean to you to be named Teacher of the Year?
This is an extremely high honor for me. Being recognized as Teacher of the Year is a validation of all the work, commitment and ethical practices we put forth as COE faculty. I am proud to represent my colleagues with this honor and carry forward our vision and mission of our teacher education programs.
What’s your teaching philosophy?
I approach my teaching practice with a mixture of pedagogical stances allowing for reciprocal teaching and knowledge to be shared. This is cultivated through the centering of all voices and implementing Epistemic Agency—building knowledge as a collaborative process and co- constructing our learning space and environment. My teaching philosophy is inspired by justice-oriented practices and critical lenses where I allow multiple perspectives to be shared as there are different ways of knowing and being.
What advice would you give to future educators?
My advice is to continue your education and learning in the field. Reflexivity is a key component that you will need because when we know better, we do better. Avoid becoming complacent and stagnant. Instead, be guided by the philosophies and pedagogical approaches that ground your practice and vision for education as there is always a better, more just and more equitable system to strive for. This is the work we must never forget. Also, above all, be kind to yourself and find the grace in teaching so you can show up 100% for your students.
What do you like to do when you’re not teaching?
When I am not teaching, you will find me hanging out with family and friends, on the running trails or on the golf course. I love to be outside and travel to different destinations seeking new experiences. Cooking, reading and watching movies along with some of my favorite shows are other pastimes that I enjoy.
Jill Kimball | NAU Communications
(928) 523-2282 | jill.kimball@nau.edu