Resident Spotlight: Christopher Pinto
Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Chris Pinto and I teach Algebra 2 & AP Statistics here at KIPP Sunnyside in Houston, Texas. I can be found doing math, running, volunteering, or eating an absurd amount of crunchy peanut butter.
What inspires you to do the work that you do?
Like many of my students, I am a LatinX, First Generation student, so being able to educate and serve students who look like me is a phenomenal privilege. Every day is a struggle, but the mini-victory of getting students to believe in their own abilities makes it all worthwhile.
How has Relay helped you to become a more impactful teacher?
Relay has given me the tools for classroom management and student engagement. By having these techniques and refining them through practice and coursework, I have been able to bridge content gaps for my students and empower them to enjoy the learning process.
At Relay, we truly believe that a teacher is one of the most impactful people in a students’ life. Can you share with us someone who has impacted your life in a similar way?
This is a tie between my AP English Literature Teacher, Mrs. Culver, and my AP US History teacher, Mrs. Allen. Both ladies pushed me to be my absolute best every day in a way that made me love learning and love the idea of using education as an act of service. Although it has been over 7 years, both of these wonderful teachers still check in on me and my classroom journey.
What do you love about teaching in your respective city/town?
Houston is a city rich in diversity with people, things to do, and places to see.
Do you have a favorite quote, movie or book that helps motivate you & the work that you do?
I am still learning. -Every day brings a new set of challenges, however, every day also brings an opportunity to change your part of the world for the better. Be the change you wish to see in the world. -Don't just talk about it, go out and do it.
Is there anything else you'd like to share about yourself and/or the work that you do?
I was originally in graduate school pursuing a Master's Degree in Applied Finance at Oklahoma State University. Although I was halfway through the program, I couldn't convince myself that I was meant to be in a cubicle instead of a classroom. Therefore, I took a leap of faith and applied to Relay GSE and have loved my decision ever since! Being a fellow and now a lead teacher have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my life.