Sam Hughes Elementary School teacher Mr. Randolph "Randy" Cueto was recognized for his innovative teaching methods and passion for English language arts education, earning him the "Elementary Teacher of Excellence" award for the state of Arizona.
Mr. Cueto was recognized by the Arizona English Teachers Association (AETA), a nonprofit group of teachers from across the state, which follows the goals and standards of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). He was presented with his hard-earned award at the AETA Annual Conference on September 23.
Mr. Cueto and his family moved to Tucson when he was 5 years old, where he attended Tucson Unified schools. He started his career as a graphic designer before going back to school to become a teacher, and he's now been with the District for 13 years.
His inspiration – his English teacher and cross country coach at Santa Rita High School, Mr. Roger Shanely, who encouraged him to think outside the box. Mr. Cueto now fosters that creativity in his own students through his teaching methods which include having them verbally and digitally tell stories via booklets and comics.
Congratulations, Mr. Cueto, and thanks for all you do for Sam Hughes students!
