Twenty-five years ago, David Gomez walked into the hallowed halls of George Washington Carver High School and began his teaching journey to impact the young minds of our future. Mr. Gomez completed his Bachelor’s in History at Talladega College. He then enrolled in the Master’s of Education program at Alabama State University in 1997, earning a Master’s in Education in Special Education/Collaborative Teacher K-12. Also, he obtained an EdSe.S in Teacher Leadership from Troy University.
Mr. Gomez shares, “I didn’t choose to work with special needs children; the program chose me. After completing my initial three years in special education, I was asked if I had an interest in overseeing the first self-contained special education unit at Carver.” The classroom included students with severe physical and cognitive disabilities requiring specialized care and oversight by trained professionals.
Teaching at Carver allows him to perform a ministry at work. “I make a difference effortlessly by seeking out individuals to help.” While doing so, Mr. Gomez implements his teaching goals throughout the year. These include making sure each of his students receives the love and acceptance that may be lacking at home or in the community, helping students reach their maximum potential despite their disabilities, and ensuring his students become socially independent and employable.
If anyone is interested in becoming a teacher, there are some misconceptions about the profession. Mr. Gomez shares, “The pay isn’t that bad. Most experienced teachers I know live prosperous lifestyles. Most teachers make a respectable salary with good benefits and plenty of opportunities to earn additional income through training and extracurricular activities.”
After teaching, Mr. Gomez plans to pursue other business opportunities while continuing to work as a special educator for the foreseeable future.
“I want to take this time to acknowledge and thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Without Him, I would have no purpose and direction.”
he shares
David Gomez has four daughters: Devynn (23), who serves in the Air Force, twins Darah and Dakara (12), and Deyanira (11).
