LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

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Jesus Patrick Isla

Position: High School Math Teacher
School: Darnell-Cookman School of Medical Arts
School District: Duval County Public Schools
City, State: Jacksonville, FL

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Jesus Patrick Isla was nominated anonymously.

"I was a math student of Mr. Isla's at Darnell-Cookman for two years. In the classroom, Mr. Isla's ability to explain AP Statistics and Financial Algebra helps students understand math concepts effectively and has made his students more confident in later math subjects. He will always take the time to break down any material we don't understand and go out of his way to tutor us using real-world examples and practice problems," said the nominator.

"He also creates friendships with his students outside the classroom. His door is always open for tutoring, if you need someone to talk to, or to eat lunch with someone. He always helps out whenever we need it, such as with recommendation letters or setting up events like the Multicultural Showcase our school hosts. He is there for you no matter what, and is always there to comfort you in times of sadness and give advice in times of stress," said the nominator.

"As a Filipino-American, he has brought me closer to my culture with his personal stories of the Philippines. He has encouraged me to perform our cultural dance, Tinikling, and sing in Tagalog in front of hundreds of people. His warm and open personality touches the hearts of all his students and has brought all of my classmates closer together. Mr. Isla has genuinely made a difference in not only my life, but all of his students' lives, and no one deserves this honor more than he does," said the nominator.

Comments (84)

k4yy1 Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is a great teacher and kind man in general. He has a great teaching style and he very deserving and dedicated.

Nikori moore Posted 5 months ago

I had Mr.isla in 6th grade and he truly made me understand math the way I do now he is an outstanding teacher, he comes no matter what he helped me get a 5 on the test props to him

Ev Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is a very good teacher. I had him when I was in the 6th grade and he has been friendly and kind ever since. He is a great math teacher and I still remember what he's taught me

Saida Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is a great teacher because he is kind, funny, and truly cares about his students. He makes learning enjoyable by building strong connections with everyone in the classroom. He always takes the time to explain lessons clearly and makes sure every student understands the material before moving on. Because of his support and positive attitude, students feel comfortable asking questions and trying their best.

Lennie fulwood Posted 5 months ago

Mr.Islas is an amazing math teacher and brings joy to us everyday. He is an awesome person and deserves everything good that comes to him. His dedication to the class and his passion for work stands out the most.

ashton Posted 5 months ago

if im being honest ive never had mr isla but i can say w/o a doubt he is one of the best teachers ive seen. he is not only so good to his students but to people who arent his students as well. he is such a great person and so open to talk and he is so great

Keshaun Flowers Posted 5 months ago

Mr Isla has helped me on a lot of things and he is very inspirational. He truly is the goat who is good at his work.

Bernice Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is actually one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. Not only is he an amazing teacher, he creates such beautiful bonds with the people around him and knows how to include everyone and make his class feel like a family.

Kendrick Gatlin Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is a great teacher i have only had him this year but I've seen around and he is so kind and welcoming he's relatable and works hard for his students even when i was going through things i felt i could tell him and he understood and helped me feel better and comforted me he is so kind and pure he deserves the best he teaches us things involving the class and life lessons to so were ready to go out in the real world like he taught me how to pay my taxes and change my tire he's genuinely done the most for his students and me and he deserves the best i hope yall nominate him

Hram Sang Posted 5 months ago

What stands out is how Mr. Isla shows up every day with real dedication far from just following a schedule, he pours energy into helping students progress something that doesn’t always fit within classroom hours. That kind of effort speaks clearly about his care and expertise and I'm behind him completely, especially since he’s shaping how I learn here at school while spreading joy to his students while helping those in need giving advice that would help students academic and outside of school and handling responsibilities with skill and consistency.

nate higgerson Posted 5 months ago

Honestly he is one of the best teachers if not, THE BEST teacher I've had in years, he has taught me so much and I really believe what I'm learning is important and necessary to have in life(finance), he has done an amazing job at it. I have now become financially literate and have gotten this feeling that I'm somewhat ready for the real world. I believe what he has taught me will be with me for the rest of my life and will take me to places. He is really an amazing person and teacher, you can't hate him at all. sincerely, Nate Higgerson.

Alisha Davilmar Posted 5 months ago

I walked into Mr. Isla's class as a sophomore and now I'm walking out a senior. For the last three years of my life, Mr. Isla has made me fall back in love with math. When COVID-19 hit, I wasn't confident in my ability to do math. But, stepping into his class for the first time gave me the push I needed to be able to strive in a math class once again. Mr. Isla believes in each and every student he teaches. He ensures that if you don't understand something, he explains it in a way that makes it not only easy, but fun. He also makes his classroom such a fun & welcoming environment. There were times when I would walk into class in the absolute worst mood ever and end up walking out with the fattest smile on my face. You can really tell that he loves his job! Go, Mr. Isla!

Guylanda Posted 5 months ago

Mr.Isla is such an inspiration, he is such a kind and funny teacher. Every time I see his joyful energy it just makes my day.

C.Z Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is the most amazing teacher ever. He connects with the kids and builds strong connections with them with his funny and genuine personality. Mr. Isla’s way of teaching really helped me understand what we’re learning about and he likes to help break down the problem when we’re stuck. Mr. Isla really is the most helpful teacher and really impacted many students and everyone.

The Big Baka Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is an exceptional educator who genuinely cares about his students' success. His passion for math makes his lessons engaging and easy to undertand, even the toughest topics.

C. Long Posted 5 months ago

He's a great person inside and out. He makes learning fun!

Trysha Posted 5 months ago

Over the past few months I've been here, Mr. Isla has been such an inspirational and amazing teacher. He's a very trustworthy and genuine person, and makes you feel like you can talk to him about anything.

Zohair Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is the BEST teacher I've ever had. Don't believe me? here's a poem about it: In a classroom lit by numbers Where equations fill the air Stands a teacher who turns confusion Into something students can bear With patience shaped like sunlight He breaks each problem down Turning financial algebra Into confidence we've found But his lessons reach far deeper Than the pages of our books He opens doors of meaning With a never ending look A look that says "you matter" That your voice deserves a place That even in my hardest time I'm always met with warmth and grace He builds a space of friendship Where no one stands alone A classroom seat, an open door a second heart to call your own He speaks like we are more than students Like we're trusted, heard, and known Teaching through fun and laughter So learning never feels alone He meets us where we already are With jokes that help the lessons stay Turning numbers into moments That I will remember everyday Mr. Isla, you've shaped our lives In ways you may not see Your kindness leaves a legacy That grows in all of us, endlessly :)

Natalie Avramescu Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is one of the most phenomenal math teachers I've ever had. He takes time in teaching us financial literacy, and it's no secret how much he enjoys it. It's a wonderful experience to hear his educational stories, teaching us to be responsible with not only our money, but also our lives. He doesn't hesitate to help out students while simultaneously providing us the tools to succeed. If there's a teacher you want to have, It's Mr. Isla.

Sebastian Bodin Posted 5 months ago

To me and many of my great peers, Mr. Isla is a welcoming and inspirational teacher with his joyful appearance and attitude. He is a teacher everyone is comfortable to talk with and cracks jokes to make everyone laugh and especially his secret to his infinite youth. Mr. Isla to all of us is a great teacher and someone we can go to if we have something on our mind.

M. Posted 5 months ago

Mr. Isla is, hands down, one of the best teachers that can change the way you think of yourself as a student and a person entirely. His ability to explain complex classes makes even the most difficult topics seem manageable, and he never fails to stay after school to tutor, assist, and provide examples that make sense. What makes him unforgettable, though, is that he truly cares outside of school, and his door is always open whether you need help, advice, or just a friend to sit with. He proudly shares his culture and brings everyone together, giving everyone confidence in themselves and their identity. Mr. Isla has made a huge impact on all of us, and he truly deserves all the recognition he receives.

Walky Richemond Posted 5 months ago

Seeing Mr. Isla getting nominated is a shock. The entire country, and he was one of the few to get nominated. He deserves it, rightfully. He is a great teacher and a kind person. He actually encourages the students and helps them if they're having problems.

Anyelina Alfaro Posted 6 months ago

Mr.Isla to me has been one of the best teachers I have ever had, he is an amazing person, an excellent teacher, and the kindest person ever. He is there for his students when they need him and he will take time out of his day to hear you and make you feel like you matter. He is a very encouraging teacher in the classroom that will help his students at any time. He has impacted every student that he has ever had.

Cin Sang Posted 6 months ago

Seeing Mr. Isla get recognition means a lot. The way he teaches is so kind and also very articulate with his words. He is very patient, and understanding. I’ve only had him for junior and senior year but for those two years, it was the best classroom experience that i’ve had in a while. Truly honored to be a student of Mr. Isla.

Jonas Belizaire Posted 6 months ago

Mr. Isla has been my teacher for 2 years now and has completely provided a foundation for my life and support that I could never guessed I needed. Last year was the best and I discovered through his help that I want to pursue investments and in general a career that involves math. Thank you Mr. Isla.

Joseph Posted 6 months ago

Mr. Isla is really professional and a very nice teacher.

K. Jules Posted 8 months ago

mr. isla is such a great teacher, he listens to his students needs, and will do whatever is needed to help a student achieve their goals!

Jessica Posted 8 months ago

Mr. Isla's dedication is exceptional. He is an incredibly patient and kind teacher who goes to great lengths to ensure comprehension, often dedicating extra time to explain material most students struggle with. He makes sure no question goes unanswered.

Leah Rodriguez Posted 8 months ago

My Inspirational Teacher: Mr. Isla (FYI: Gonna be the paragraph person) I had Mr. Isla in 6th grade during the 2nd quarter, and at first, I wasn't really excited. I thought he was gonna be like all the other boring math teachers. But after just three minutes in class, I changed my mind. Mr. Isla was different—he was super engaging and really paid attention. He followed my IEP and helped me out exactly when I needed it. Whether it was a tough math assignment or just everyday stuff, he was always there for me. Mr. Isla was the first teacher I really liked in school. Now, as an 8th grader, I sometimes sneak into the high school area after school just to see him. Mr. Isla is more than just a teacher; he's a real DCSOMA Viking who inspires and supports us all the time!

Zayda Sailsman Posted 9 months ago

Me. Isla was not just a teacher and taught me to never give up when I was at my lowest he was also a friend he's so kind and I was so thankful to have him as a Math teacher.

Myra Thomas Posted 9 months ago

I have Mr. Isla for statistics and it was one of the best math classes I am taking. Not only does he teach his class on the board but he makes sure you understand what you are learning. He goes over any questions you have about the problems and he gives a visual presentation and explanation on the board which helps me to be successful in his class. He gives a reference sheet for each chapter which has the formulas to use which helps also teaches. I also enjoy that he teaches us the hand way and the calculator way as well. This class helps me understand math and really enjoy it. This is by far one of the best math classes I have ever taken and it’s mainly credit to the teacher because he can teach and explain.

Corey Posted 10 months ago

Mr isla was an awesome teacher i had him for 6 grade and I hated it i hated math in general but suddenly I actually like math. So i find myself actually going to class for mr isla. mr isla has changed my life.

May Ephraim Posted 10 months ago

The best teacher in the world, had him for 3 years. He explains everything so clearly, and no matter how difficult the problem, he’s always patient and kind. He never makes anyone feel left behind and truly cares about his students’ success. I’m so grateful for a teacher like him <3

Andy Posted 10 months ago

I currently have a class with Mr.Isla and he is one of the most kind and understanding teachers I have ever had. Mr.Isla takes a great amount of time making sure his students are able to understand the material being given he has taken to time to explain parts of the material that must students wouldn’t understand.Mr.Isla is a very patient and kind teacher he answer all the questions about the material that students have. I wasn’t really good at math but with Mr.Isla guidance I started improving and much better at math. I greatly appreciate all the work Mr.Isla has done in teaching me the course I’m taking.

Meshak Thang Posted 11 months ago

As a former student, friend, and human being myself, Mr. Isla has been one of the most influential people who encouraged and inspired me from my high school years, as a junior and senior, and continues to do so to this day. Not only is Mr. Isla a great teacher when it comes to assisting or addressing concerns, but he also has another side to him that is one of the purest and genuine people you could meet, which I am here to publicly state the impact that Mr. Isla has had upon me. Even if his role is labeled as a high school teacher, he is also a very empathetic person who will help resolve any concerns holding someone back. As a personal experience, Mr. Isla allowed me to understand that neither today nor yesterday should negatively affect or identify you the next day. Let it be something as simple as missing/failing assignments, to a personal crisis such as not fitting in a community, or the feeling of being overlooked/unnoticed, Mr. Isla will make it known that he is there for you as a teacher and an outlet for feelings and solutions. He truly influenced my sense of belonging to increase, as well as mentally prepared me for the next steps in my life, such as college and work. To this day, I am in contact with Mr. Isla, and it is one of the decisions in life that I am extremely grateful for and wish that I could go back in time to introduce myself to Mr. Isla in order to establish an even closer relationship with him. To end this testimony and message, Mr. Isla is a an amazing and a greatly infulential figure in our society and especially within my eyes!

Anonymous Posted 11 months ago

I am a class of 2024 and I had him a couple years back. He is an amazing teacher and I still appreciate to this day! He is so friendly and enthusiastic, and now my younger sister has him. I’ve told her about how great he was and how she was in good hands! He teaches in a way everyone can understand, and at a perfect pace. Mr. Isla is the best :)

Tyler Posted 11 months ago

Occasionally, this world decides that it doesn’t need to be so cynical, so real, or so disappointing. That people can be as bright, hopeful, and curious as you thought they were when you were a child. That is when someone like Mr. Isla comes into your life. Mr. Isla has taught me not only about the virtues of kindness and curiosity, but of his perseverance. Were every person endowed with a fraction of his qualities not only would there be less suffering, but everyone would be enjoined in the good benefits of the small niceties he presents to us day to day. Whether it’s a radiant smile, a small gift, or just a happy greeting. Personally, I have to thank Mr. Isla for getting me through AP Statistics as I have never been a math prodigy, but with his help I was able to pass it and save myself lots of effort in college. He also was very patient with my procrastination and I can definitely say that I now tackle my college math classes with a renewed diligence thanks to him. Ultimately, Mr. Isla is the best!

Yara Posted 11 months ago

I was lucky enough to have Mr. Isla as my math teacher for 3 years in a row, and he has honestly been one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. He’s so patient and always takes the time to explain things in a way that makes sense, no matter how many times it takes. His classroom was always a safe and welcoming place where everyone felt comfortable, and he treated his students with so much kindness and respect. I loved how he shared his culture with us and how open he was to learning from his students too. It really made class feel more like a community. He has truly changed the lives of countless students at Darnell Cookman for the better.

Marissa Elghali Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Islas really changed my life. He helped me get better at math when I was struggling, and he was always there to listen when I was going through problems. Having a teacher who supports you both in school and in life makes such a big difference, and I’m really grateful for everything he’s done for me.

Abby Gipson Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla was my math teacher in 10th, 11th, and 12th grade, and he had a impact on both my academic side and personal life. When I struggled in math, he never let me give up on myself. He reminded me that I was capable, smart, and able to succeed. I was able to complete my work and pass the AP Statistics exam, something that I know would not have been possible without his support and help. However, Mr. Isla is more than just a teacher, he was a friend. He always took the time to listen, whether it was about school challenges or my personal struggles. He knew that life outside the classroom impacts a student’s performance inside the classroom, and he offered support without judgment. He would always check up on his students, making sure they are okay, not just in the coursework, but their own life. Mr. Isla also could switch between professionalism and humor. He could lighten the mood with a joke, making math feel less annoying, while still holding high expectations for his students. He is always open to help, whether through tutoring, reviewing assignments, or even extending late deadlines. For me, Mr. Isla was not only a teacher who helped me succeed in math, but also a friend during an important stage of my life. His impact continues to stay with me even through college. He cares about each and every student, calling to check up on them even after they leave his classroom.

Aubrey Medick Posted 11 months ago

Mr.Isla is one of the most lovely teachers I have ever had in my life. He is the first math teacher I have ever truly enjoyed and been excited to see. Math has been a subject I have always struggled with. From the age of 7 years old I have had difficulty understanding math and have spent many nights in tears because of it. Being at Darnell Cookman is not an easy task with all their advanced classes that including math. Not a single math teacher has ever taken the time to stop and break down numbers quite like Mr.Isla. I have failed, tests, classes, been scolded by teachers, laughed at by students, and genuinely scared to go to my math classes in the past. Mr. Isla’s class has always been different. I have never once felt scared to enter his class because I know that if I don’t understand something I can ask him without the fear of his response. His class is warm and welcoming with his big smile and jokes throughout his lessons. In his classroom we’re almost like a family. He brings real world examples into his teaching that make concepts easier to understand. When you ask a question he is happy to help you personally and breaks the answer down in the simplest way possible. I specifically remember the time at the beginning of my first year with him I worked up the courage to ask for help with a formula everyone else understood. Instead of asking why I didn’t understand he pulled up a chair at my desk and worked through problems with me until I understood. From that point forward I was never afraid to ask him for help. He doesn’t make you feel dumb for not understanding what some may call “basic” concepts. Mr.Isla’s math and finance class was the only math class I consistently passed my tests in AND passed my EOC. It was the first math class I can say I actually learned from and found beneficial. This year I am taking his probability and statistics class and he’s no different than last year. Always asking if we understand and eager to help when we need it. I’m already learning so much. I love that Mr.Isla isn’t afraid to admit when he isn’t sure of an answer or makes a mistake. He makes me not feel so bad when I do the same. Aside from in the class teaching he is a safe adult to go to whether you need extra help between classes, need a place to eat lunch, have to ask a question, or simply need someone to talk to. I never thought the time would come when I ever understood anything in math, let alone enjoyed it at times. No amount of words in the world could express how thankful I am for Mr.Isla. He is a once in a lifetime kind of teacher.

Jamie Posted 11 months ago

I still currently have Mr. Isla as a teacher and I am taking AP Stats because of him. Through his teaching and interest personality he has awakened a love for math that I never knew was there. No teacher has ever done that for me. I am forever grateful. He is always pouring his heart into his students, he is loved by everyone here at Darnell cookman

saraphina Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla is such an amazing teacher!!! He’s so willing to help students whenever help is needed without making them feel less of themselves, while also making the class entertaining enough to pay attention and following along with each wonderful lesson he teaches!!!

Cing Zun Posted 11 months ago

When I think of an ideal educator that is honorable, respectful and knowledgeable, I think of Mr Isla. He has always been an outstanding math teacher who consistently does his best to accommodate to the needs of his students with so much care. I was never good at math and because of that, I felt like I was falling behind my peers but Mr Isla never made me feel as though I was outcasted. He helped me gain confidence in myself and will always have a lasting impact on my life. There is no one more deserving of this title than him.

Omenasa Akporhuarho Posted 11 months ago

I personally don’t have him as a teacher. But I’ve heard amazing things about him. He makes sure all his students are doing well. His also very involved in school activities such as multi.

Adriana Stevens Posted 11 months ago

He is one of the best teachers I've ever had. One of the most caring persons I've known and always knows how to make people laugh. Always pushing us to be the best versions of ourselves and teaching us so well and makes sure we understand our work. Being able to be a trusted adult is a huge thing for a lot of people we all know we can go to Mr. Isla and talk about how we feel without being judged. He is one of the greatest teachers I will have ever known and will always hold a place in my heart.

Steven Ramos Posted 11 months ago

I think most people can agree that the teachers who you like and respect the most are the ones who don’t just behave like an authority figure, but also as a friend to all students. Mr. Isla has always shown me and countless other people nothing but warmth, care, and compassion both in and out of the classroom, and I can only ever recall good memories from my time with him (something I can’t say for a lot of teachers). In particular, I remember one day when I was going through a lot of hardship for a time when I visited his classroom one day outside of school hours. Long story short, me and him talked in the parking lot of the school until nearly 6pm (I think I even made him late for dinner with his wife, sorry), I was able to disclose a lot to him and it never felt awkward or judgmental in anyway. I can never imagine him doing anything other than smiling and working to help anyone he could. Darnell would be a much, much gloomier place than it already is if it weren’t for him there.

Emily Pham Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla is not just a great teacher, but also a wonderful person. I’ve had him for two years now, and I look forward to this year with him as well. I can say with confidence that Mr. Isla is one of those teachers that you’ll never be able to forget once you have him, and for good reason. He does a lot for his students and genuinely cares about them, putting the time and effort in to really connect with them. Mr. Isla is kind, patient, and understanding. He’s great at explaining things and giving good examples which I really like, because I need a lot of examples to understand math. I’ve never been a fan of math as it’s always been my weakest and most difficult subject, but in his class, it doesn’t feel as bad, and that’s a lot for me. With Mr. Isla’s teaching, I can actually understand the stuff that’s being taught, and it feels like I’m actually learning instead of just struggling the whole time. I feel very lucky and grateful to have him as my teacher, as he’s impacted my life for the better

Lujain Posted 11 months ago

In most of my classes, I was able to do well and understand the material, but math was always different for me. For the longest time, I had a hard time learning math in class, and the way other teachers taught never really helped me understand the topics. It wasn’t until Mr. Isla’s class that I finally felt like I didn’t have to teach an entire class to myself outside of school. He does a great job keeping us engaged while also making sure we understand the concepts. I have been with him for two years, and he is definitely my favorite teacher.

Myra C Posted 11 months ago

I had Mr. Isla way back in sixth grade he was an amazing teacher he taught amazing and was a real good math teacher now Im in 10th grade and next year may take his class for 11th grade because I'd love to have him again

Michael Dinh Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla is a very good person! He was recently my 12th grade teacher and helped me build my college resume and pushed me to not procastinate on anything. A very influential person and I thank him for his guidance.

Isabella Wolfenbarger Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla is one of the best teachers ive ever had he will sit with you if you do not understand what we are doing and he explains everything in simple terms for you. He truly is an amazing teacher and person.

Carly Sheppard Posted 11 months ago

This man was one of the few teachers who were actually passionate about their job and invested in their students. Mr. Isla made me enjoy learning statistics. He has had a large impact on my life and I’m sure many others feel the same way.

Austin Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla was my high school teacher for three years straight, and he's always been more than a teacher for me and to all the others around. He was there when you needed it, pushed you to be better, and was always somebody I felt like I could talk to.

Bernice Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla is the best math teacher I’ve ever had. I used to dread going into a math class but now I look forward to it everyday. He always takes the time to explain everything and REALLY make sure you understand it. He’s not only amazing as a math teacher, but as a person. He is genuine, humorous, intelligent, and thoughtful. He shows all of his amazing characteristics throughout the days and I couldn’t even try to imagine a teacher better than him.

Andrew kurti Posted 11 months ago

Mr isla is by far one of my favorite teachers of all time he’ll always make time for you when you need him and will assist you with anything you need. On top of being an amazing teacher Mr Isla is a great man and great person who gives the best advice and is also one of the funniest people I’ve met. Overall Mr Isla is one of the coolest and best teachers I’ve ever met and I teacher i definitely will stay in touch with after school.

Brian Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla he’s the best math teacher i've ever had not just the best teacher but best mentor in general he really knows what to say all the time and what advice to give. He always was there for me whenever I needed it and he always made learning math fun and easy. His math class was the only A I ever got. He's the best person ever.

Divine Johnson Posted 11 months ago

Mr.Isla is an amazing teacher. He lets you see the real world applications to his classes. He is always open to talk to a student if they need tutoring or just advice on life. He adds life to the classroom and I can say he is my favorite math teacher ever. After years of never truly understanding math, I brought up my concerns and he took the time to help me and this has set my up for success in AP Stat and college math! I can say Mr.Isla is the teacher you want I’ve taken 3 different courses with him just to have him as a teacher and it was all worth it to sit in his room each day.

Jamesha Posted 11 months ago

After struggling with math for an entire year, taking Mr. Islas’ class felt like a breath of fresh air. Not only because I enjoy learning statistics but what truly made the difference was his passion for teaching. From the very beginning of the school year, Mr. Islas shared his story, growing up in the Philippines, then moving to the Seychelles, and eventually to the big city of DUVALL with his family. Those moments made us feel connected to him, not just as a teacher, but as a person. The fact that he found his way to my school as my teacher was fate! Because of his teaching, I was able to pass AP Statistics and even test out of math in college, something I am eternally grateful for. But beyond grades and credits, Mr. Islas changed my perspective on learning. He created a classroom that was welcoming, supportive, and full of love. Mr. Islas didn’t just teach lessons out of a textbook, he shared experiences, food, culture, advice, and genuine love with his students. He wasn’t afraid to acknowledge his own little mistakes, and he always modeled what it meant to learn and grow, right alongside us. In just two years, he went from being my math teacher to feeling like family. Truly, he is the best math teacher ever and more than deserving of the title “Life Changer of the Year.” #mahalkita <3

Ange Posted 11 months ago

As a former student of Mr. Isla’s, I can proudly say he is one of the most compassionate and dedicated educators I’ve ever met. He ensures that all his students truly understand the material and makes everyone feel involved in the lesson, taking the time to individually help anyone who may be struggling. He creates a welcoming and supportive environment, checking in on students both academically and personally, and offering help to those who need it. His positivity and humor can brighten anyone’s day! Mr. Isla also helped us Filipino-Americans connect more deeply with our culture and traditions, making school feel a little more like home. Many students appreciate his hard work and support. We love you, Mr. Isla!! :D

Abi Posted 11 months ago

He is such an amazing teacher I began to love math which I thought was impossible but Mr Isla made it happen

Dula Posted 11 months ago

He took time out of his busy week to make me a special plate salmon and rice, just out of the kindness of his heart. Best teacher I've ever met.

Ashanti Coleman Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla deserves this award because he is a very amazing and helpful teacher. He’s always smiling and every time I communicate with him he brightens my day.

Jhordyn Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla is one of the reasons I even continue to try at math. He always has a bright smile and an upbeat attitude and he is always willing to help. He truly is an amazing person!!

Saba Bunu Posted 11 months ago

One of the things I look forward too the most is Mr Islas class. This speaks volumes as I have always struggled and had a bad relationship with mathematics and he is a math teacher here at darnell cookman for statistics and finance. Mr isla is by far of the best staff at this school, he is amazing at his job explaining topics with ease and always being ready and eager to assist students in need. I have never felt safer and more welcome and genuinely cared for by a teacher than by mr isla, his ability to create community and friendship amongst his students and overall student body, even with students whom he doesn't teach is amazing. He is the friendliest, warmest and funniest teacher you can have who will care for you like you are his own child and teach you and tutor you with such diligence and support that you will never be able to look at teaching the same again. He raises the bar for other teachers and staff, he shows everyone what it really means to be an amazing educator. We love you Mr Isla THE GOAT

Yza Lopez Posted 11 months ago

I never personally had Mr. Isla’s class, but I would visit his classroom often because my friends did. Every time, he would make me feel welcome, asking me questions about my math class and how it was going. I would feel involved in the conversations held between him and students, and I felt his classroom was a safe space. Whenever my friends discussed him, they only had good things to say - he truly cares about his students’ education and that they truly understand the material given in class, but he also ensures that they are heard and considered. Mr. Isla also allowed me to share our Filipino culture with my fellow classmates by inviting me and my friends to perform the Tinikling dance in front of his class, and educated them about the Philippines and its rich history and traditions. After watching his impact at Darnell-Cookman for two years, I can confidently say that Mr. Isla is a teacher that genuinely made a mark on his students and one that will be remembered long after graduation.

Anonymous Posted 11 months ago

YOU’RE THE BEST TEACHER EVER THANK YOU FOR STAYING AT THIS SCHOOL ??

Khaliah Waiters Posted 11 months ago

I've been learning under Mr. Isla for a year now. I'm entering my second year with him, and I've noticed something about him. Even when he's tired, he still manages to greet his students and show them a life-changing smile. He teaches with a sincerity and a positive spirit that follows him around. He shares those good feelings with everyone he meets, always doing his best to not only do his job, but also ensure that every one of his students is well and ready to learn. Another thing that I can say for certain is that he pays attention. I've made minute changes in my life, and Mr. Isla has noticed every single one within a day of seeing me. He's always willing to laugh, and it's contagious. Hearing him laugh made the sun wonder if it was necessary anymore. He's truly a life changer, and I wouldn't choose anyone else to have gone down this journey with.

zennareia Posted 11 months ago

Go Mr. Isla????

Jason Posted 11 months ago

Mr Isla Man Greatest teacher of all time Goat He inspires Alot of people No complaints about him He made me not Hate math Again Goat

Chance Posted 11 months ago

Amazing teacher! Literally the best!

gina Posted 11 months ago

i agree! #lifechanging

Man Cing Posted 11 months ago

I am new to Mr. Isla’s class, but he made me feel comfortable immediately. He is very funny and reasonable, he listens to the students and understands them well. He often asks during the lessons if he’s ever going too fast or too slow to make sure we’re learning at the perfect pace. Also, every time a staff member walks into the classroom, he makes us applaud to appreciate their hard work! Mr. Isla is so sweet, and he is also great at teaching. :)

Alena Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla was my teacher last year and I have him again this year, the way he teaches is really helpful to me as someone who has trouble learning math, and he’s always so happy to help when I ask questions. He is such a good teacher!!!

Faith Posted 11 months ago

Truly one of the best teachers at DCSOMA????

Ash Posted 11 months ago

I've talked to Mr. Isla only a few times, yet I still consider him one of the best teachers at Darnell. He's always so kind and fun, he is passionate in what he does and has a clear goal to change lives.

ashton Posted 11 months ago

ive never had mr isla personally but he is such a kind and thoughtful teacher to his students, ive only heard good things from my peers and he is #amazing ??????

Cing Lian Posted 11 months ago

I love Mr. Isla! I never even had Mr.Isla as a teacher yet he talks to me like I'm his student! From many testimonies I've heard, he's an awesome teacher! He is able to teach AND be entertaining at once! His classes are always filled with both curiosity and laughter! Mr. Isla is amazing!

Samuel Ibeakanma Posted 11 months ago

This guy is pretty good at badminton

Chrissy Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla is one of the best and most deserving teachers. He has such a kind and helpful soul, always looking out for every student even those he never taught. Hes an amazing teacher!

Angelina Posted 11 months ago

Mr. Isla is a great role model, and someone who I can relate to. I first met him as he was taking his ID picture, and although we didn’t talk, I had no idea he would be as caring and charismatic as he is now. He made the effort to learn my name even if I wasn’t ever able to take his class—I mean, how considerate is that? He treats me as if I’m one of his students, and that isn’t something you see everyday. I’m thankful Mr. Isla teaches at Darnell Cookman, and makes the effort to care for every student he lays his eyes on. I’m actually 1 out of 3 of the full-blooded Filipinos in my grade, and the fact that we have additional Filipino representation at Darnell is amazing. Mr. Isla truly brings so much to the table and life into our school’s culture and community. GO MR. ISLA!

Zariah Harvey Posted 11 months ago

There is truly no one more deserving of this title than Mr.Ilsa. He does so much for everyone around him while going through a lot of his own and he has personally changed my life in more ways than one. He restored my love for math and some of my faith in people as a whole. Mr. Ilsa is such a wholesome and wonderful man and teacher that I know no one in my class would be who they are without him, especially myself.

Frederick Posted 11 months ago

The one thing about Mr.isla is that he wouldn’t give up on you and he will there for you until you get the material down and always nice and calm when talking and breaking things down to tea, and if it wasn’t for him I would have not have the requirement to pass

Jenny Posted 11 months ago

Mr. lsla has shown me that math can be fun and he always likes to use a real life situation to help us better understand the concept. He is the most passionate math teacher I’ve ever meet and he is just a bundle of joy. He is always welcoming and supportive of everyone no matter how well you do in his class. He never judges you based off your academic work. He is very involved with the activities the kids are involved in. I remember he would come to my gym class and play badminton with us and one time he even ran a mile with us to support us. I really couldn’t think of anyone else who would deserve this award much more than him and not only is it about the money prize but I think Mr isla would be happy that he was even nominated for this award. He I really had changed my life and my perspective on math.