Teacher in the Making: Ava Dos Santos

Teaching the Ways // Graduating with the Class of ‘26, senior Ava Dos Santos is leaving behind a legacy of love at Coronado. After four years greatly dedicated to the Teaching and Training program, all of Coronado is ecstatic to see what’s next for her. (Photo Courtesy of Ava Dos Santos)

As the Class of 2026’s graduation approaches, Coronado High School will be saying goodbye to many beloved seniors, including Ava Dos Santos. Ava has taken time to reflect on four beautiful years filled with growth, leadership, and many unforgettable memories. She describes her time as a Coronado Cougar as a period of growth, sharing that her high school experience has helped her to become more confident while also building meaningful relationships with not only friends, but staff members.

“Over the past four years, I’ve grown so much as a person and built many meaningful relationships,” Dos Santos said. “I’ve made great friends and connected with staff members through being an office aide and having supportive teachers.”

Throughout her time at Coronado, Ava stayed actively involved in life on campus. During her high school experience, she participated heavily in the Teaching and Training program. In doing so, she gained extremely valuable life skills, like leadership and hands-on experience. Along with this, she also joined Student Council during her freshman year and currently serves as a senior member of Students for Society, which is a community-service based club focusing on activism and political change.

“I’ve been a part of the Teaching and Training program all four years, where I gained real-life experience working with elementary students and developing leadership skills,” Dos Santos added. “Through my experiences, especially in the Teaching and Training program, I’ve learned the importance of leadership, patience, and making a positive difference in others’ lives.”

Outside of school, Ava enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as swimming, tanning, and shopping. Dos Santos has also made her mark through school spirit and tradition, running for Homecoming Court during both her freshman and senior years. She was honored to win both times, creating memories she will always cherish. Another highlight of her freshman year was attending the Student Council Disneyland trip, which she described as an especially fun experience.

Looking ahead, Ava plans to continue her education at Nevada State University this fall, where she will be majoring in elementary education. Her goal is to become a first or second grade teacher, a career path inspired by the experiences she gained through Coronado’s Teaching and Training program.

“Coronado has helped shape me into a more confident and responsible person,” Dos Santos explained. “I hope to leave behind an impact as a kind, involved, and positive role model for other students.”

As she prepares for her next chapter, Ava hopes to be remembered as someone who made a positive impact on those around her. She wants to leave behind a legacy of compassion, heart, and leadership for future students to follow in her footsteps.

With her warm personality, dedication to others, and deep passion for education, there is no doubt Ava Dos Santos has made the most of her time at Coronado High School. As she steps into the next chapter of her life, it is certain she will be missed here but even more certain that she is off to do great things.