LEAD Public Schools

Bryan Aguilar started as a substitute teacher at LEAD Cameron over three years ago, but his journey to becoming an educator began when he was only nine years old. 

He was born and raised in El Salvador, in an area that did not have the resources to provide a high-quality education. “My family and I grew up very poor and in a violent neighborhood,” he explained. “[We] began to apply for our residency in the United States to help my sister and I have a better future.” 

When he was nine, they were approved for residency, and he moved to Franklin, Tennessee. However, he found that the education system still lacked proper programs to help migrants learn the basics of English and math. 

“I recognized how important it was for schools to incorporate programs such as the Newcomer Academy and GreenHouse initiative,” he said. LEAD Cameron is known for both of these programs, designed to support students who are new to the country and are learning English. 

Early on, his own experiences planted a seed of passion to help students just like him who came to the U.S. from around the world. This makes him an ideal fit as an educator at LEAD Cameron, where the school reflects the diversity of a growing city, with over 17 languages spoken by the student population.

Aguilar began as a substitute teacher, then moved into the role of teaching math and reading intervention, working with students who needed support with literacy and math. Now, he teaches eighth grade math. “My favorite thing about working at Cameron is watching the personal growth I get to witness in each student with their English and math skills, along with their character,” he said.

Each day teaching his students – many of them having just moved to the U.S. – he recognizes that he was once exactly where they are. “I see a reflection of myself in every student and every person I come across,” he said. “This motivates me to treat everyone equally.”

“Having been the new kid myself, I learned a lot, and I don’t believe in treating new students or staff as strangers. This drives me to be there for each and every one of them, whether it’s sitting with them during lunch, helping them with their homework, or coaching them in after-school activities. Last year, I had the opportunity to coach children in boxing lessons, and the shared joy and memories from that experience were truly priceless.”

At LEAD, we place an intentional focus on providing a way to grow professionally for every new teacher in our buildings, with a coach for every 6-8 teachers. Aguilar has seen the benefits of this focus first-hand. 

Mentors like Principal Briana Shelton have played a big role in his growth as an educator over the last few years. “She instilled in me the importance of trusting the learning process and maintaining confidence in myself as much as others believe in me,” he said. “Mrs. Shelton’s teachings were not just limited to direct conversations; I learned immensely from observing her actions. Her ability to remain composed and in control during challenging situations left a lasting impression on me. Briana Shelton is recognized for her unwavering confidence in her team and her willingness to provide assistance and support to others. Here at Cameron we highly regard her as the model of an authentic leader.”

As Aguilar continues to pour into students – many of whom remind him of his own story and educational experiences –  he says he hopes that they become leaders in their homes, workplaces, and communities. “It is my deep hope for all students to realize that I am incredibly proud of them, and I want them to continue growing into compassionate and strong leaders,” he said. “My hope for all students is for them to be grateful in every situation and to not worry about anything but pray about everything. I encourage them not to lose heart in doing good, for their efforts will bear fruit in due time. It’s important for them to understand that their value and identity do not come from material possessions or accomplishments.”